Gradenigo's syndrome: Is fusobacterium different? Two cases and review of the literature

Gradenigo's syndrome is a rare but life threatening complication of acute otitis media (AOM), which ncludes a classic triad of otitis media, deep facial pain and ipsilateral abducens nerve paralysis. The ncidence of Fusobacterium necrophorum infections has increased in recent years. We describe two cases f Gradenigo's syndrome caused by F. necrophorum. Additional four cases were identified in a review of he literature. Gradenigo's syndrome as well as other neurologic complications should be considered in ases of complicated acute otitis media. F. necrophorum should be empirically treated while awaiting culture results.