Tympanic membrane breakdown after intratympanic injection of steroids in irradiated ears

Abstract

Objective: To describe a rare complication of intratympanic injection of steroids in susceptible ears.

Patients: We present two patients with a history of irradiation involving the injected ear.

Intervention: Therapeutic.

Main outcome measure: Tympanic membrane condition after intratympanic injection of steroids.

Results: Total or near-total breakdown of the irradiated tympanic membrane.

Conclusion: Tympanic membranes with an impaired wound-healing ability, together with exposure to intratympanic steroids, may be at risk for total or near-total breakdown.