Gradenigo's syndrome

(Giuseppe Gradenigo, 18591926, Italian physician), paralysis of the sixth nerve associated with deep pain along the trigeminal nerve complicating a middle ear infection. The syndrome results from the extension of the infection to the petrous apex. This condition is now rare in the antibiotic era but it was a fairly common event in the past. MRI may demonstrate focal enhancement of the meninges over the petrous apex and extension of the infection into Meckel's cave.

FS