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Published on: February 29, 2020
Assessment of changes in cochlear function with pneumolabyrinth after middle ear trauma
William W Lao1, John K Niparko
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21287-0910, USA.
Summary
Traumatic pneumolabyrinth, an inner ear air collection, can resolve with conservative management. This case shows recovery of sensorineural hearing loss after tympanic membrane trauma.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Trauma Surgery
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Pneumolabyrinth is a rare condition characterized by air within the inner ear structures.
- It can result from penetrating trauma to the tympanic membrane and ossicular chain.
Observation:
- A 15-year-old male presented with acute hearing loss, vertigo, and tinnitus post-penetrating right tympanic membrane injury.
- Computed tomography confirmed air density within the vestibule, indicative of pneumolabyrinth.
Findings:
- Conservative management, including bed rest, corticosteroids, and antibiotics, was initiated.
- Audiologic testing and computed tomography demonstrated resolution of air within the vestibule and closure of the air-bone gap (
- The patient experienced subjective recovery of near-normal hearing and sensorineural function.
Implications:
- Conservative treatment may be effective for traumatic pneumolabyrinth, potentially avoiding surgical interventions.
- Prompt conservative management can lead to favorable recovery of hearing and vestibular function.
- This case supports a conservative approach as the initial management strategy for traumatic pneumolabyrinth without worsening symptoms.
