13th August 2024

A 66-year-old female presents to A&E after experiencing a worsening headache, fevers and double vision

A 66-year-old female presents to A&E after experiencing a worsening headache, fevers and double vision over the last 48 hours. Her husband reports she has been complaining of an earache for the last 3 weeks but has refused to see a doctor about it despite his concerns. On assessment, her temperature is 38.0 degrees Celsius, HR 101 bpm, BP 110/60 mmHg. There is erythema, swelling and tenderness over the right mastoid process. She is unable to abduct her right eye during the cranial nerve exam and has a good range of movement in her neck. Blood tests are performed which show raised inflammatory markers. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Select the SINGLE most appropriate option from the list below. Select ONE option only.