COVID-19 Pandemic Alters Acute Mastoiditis Epidemiology in Children

Strategic Insights -

Research on the effects of COVID-19 on acute mastoiditis in children has led to significant changes in the epidemiology of the disease. According to a study published in the European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology, the incidence of acute mastoiditis (AM) increased significantly after the COVID-19 pandemic, with a rise in cases from 31 to 105, and complication rates remaining stable. The study also found that the prevalence of Streptococcus pyogenes increased from 9.7% to 34.6%, while Streptococcus pneumoniae decreased from 32.3% to 11.5%.

Key Takeaways:

  • The incidence of acute mastoiditis in children increased significantly after the COVID-19 pandemic, with a rise in cases from 31 to 105.
  • The complication rates of acute mastoiditis remained stable, with 26.5% of cases being complicated.
  • The prevalence of Streptococcus pyogenes increased from 9.7% to 34.6%, while Streptococcus pneumoniae decreased from 32.3% to 11.5%.
  • Older age, elevated C-reactive protein (CRP), and prehospital antibiotic use were significantly associated with complications.
  • Most cases of acute mastoiditis occurred in winter, while complicated cases peaked in spring.
  • Mastoidectomy was performed in 80.6% of complicated cases, with prolonged hospital stays and extended antibiotic therapy.

Statistics:

  • Pre-pandemic incidence of acute mastoiditis: 31 cases.
  • Post-pandemic incidence of acute mastoiditis: 105 cases.
  • Prevalence of Streptococcus pyogenes: 9.7% pre-pandemic, 34.6% post-pandemic.
  • Prevalence of Streptococcus pneumoniae: 32.3% pre-pandemic, 11.5% post-pandemic.
  • Complication rates: 26.5% pre-pandemic, 24.8% post-pandemic.
  • Age associated with complications: older age.
  • CRP levels associated with complications: elevated CRP.
  • Prehospital antibiotic use associated with complications: yes.

Sources:

  • European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology, 2025, "Epidemiological evolution of acute mastoiditis in children after COVID-19 pandemic".
  • Springer, One New York Plaza, Suite 4600, New York, NY, United States.
  • Barbara Ribaut, Dept. of Pediatric Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Femme Mere Enfant Hospital-Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France.