Neuro-otologic manifestations of sarcoidosis

Sarcoidosis is an idiopathic disease which presents in anatomic areas of concern to otorhinolaryngologists. It can cause dysfunction of both auditory and vestibular systems. In patients known previously to have sarcoidosis, this disease should be seriously considered. In patients presenting with otologic disorders and associated facial nerve paralysis or other neuropathies, uveitis, granulomatous meningitis or diabetes insipidus, sarcoidosis should be suspected. An examination of the eyes as well as a chest X-ray is imperative. Sudden and fluctuating neurosensory hearing loss has been reported. There is a great need for the study of temporal bones from sarcoidosis patients.