Authors : Adedeji Okikiade; Richard Adetoye; Stephen Adetoye; Esther Omotoso; Olusegun S. Osadare; Anugwa Oluchi; Chidimma A. Diala; Ololade Omitogun

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 4 - April

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/6fvu85hm

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/4deffm7v

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26apr1620

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.

Abstract : Pott’s puffy tumor (PPT) is a rare, life-threatening complication of frontal sinusitis. It involves osteomyelitis of the frontal bone and subperiosteal abscess formation. First described by Percivall Pott, PPT is a severe progression of untreated or inadequately managed sinus infection. It can extend intracranially through the valveless diploic venous system. This narrative review synthesizes current evidence on PPT’s epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic evaluation, and management. The review draws from major biomedical databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Embase. PPT is most commonly seen in adolescents due to increased vascularity of the diploic system. However, adult cases are increasingly reported. Risk factors include chronic sinusitis, trauma, immunosuppression, and previous sinonasal procedures. Clinically, PPT presents with forehead swelling, headache, fever, and nasal symptoms, and is frequently associated with serious intracranial complications such as epidural abscess, subdural empyema, meningitis, and brain abscess. Diagnosis requires a high index of suspicion and is supported by imaging: computed tomography evaluates bony involvement, and magnetic resonance imaging provides superior assessment of intracranial extension. This may also require a call-to-action plan to ensure proper disease categorization. Management involves prompt initiation of broadspectrum intravenous antibiotics and timely surgical intervention for drainage and debridement. Despite its rarity, PPT remains underrecognized, and delayed diagnosis can result in significant morbidity and mortality. Early recognition and a combined medico-surgical approach are essential to improving clinical outcomes and preventing life-threatening complications.

Keywords : Pott’s Puffy Tumor, Frontal Sinusitis, Periorbital Cellulitis, Osteomyelitis, Intracranial Epidural Abscess.

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