"Cardiac otalgia": acute coronary syndrome masquerading as bilateral ear pain

Abstract

Patients presenting with acute coronary syndromes are classically described as having chest pressure with radiation to the left arm. However, pain can be referred to multiple sites including the face, the neck, the abdomen and the contra-lateral arm. We present a case of sudden bilateral ear pain as the sole presentation of acute coronary syndrome in an elderly man. The importance of recognizing these atypical presentations is vital, as outcomes may be worsened as appropriate therapy may be delayed or misdirected.