Temporal Bone Problems – Diagnosis

Gul Moonis
Image: columbiadoctors.org

Dr. Gul Moonis is an experienced neuroradiologist with expertise in head and neck imaging who provides diagnostic support to patients at the Columbia University Irving Medical Center in New York. An expert in medical imaging, Gul Moonis, MD, has published articles and book chapters on matters related to temporal bone imaging.

On the lower lateral portions of the skull, an important structure called the temporal bone provides support for the base and sides of the skull, in addition to forming parts of the ear. A complex structure, the temporal bone is divided into five sections, with the majority of the bone comprised of the petromastoid, tympanic, and squamous portions. The remaining parts of the temporal bone are called the styloid process and the zygomatic process.

Health problems that arise in the temporal bone include mastoiditis, which manifests when porous mastoid air cells develop an infection. If left untreated, this can escalate into meningitis. The temporal bone can also incur fractures as a result of blunt trauma.

To determine the root cause of temporal bone problems, doctors may recommend imaging tests, the results of which can inform diagnosis. For example, in the case of an infected and inflamed temporal bone, radiologist might carry out high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging or computed tomography tests.

The results of these tests can help doctors determine the extent of the infection and adjust treatments as needed.