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Superior semicircular canal dehiscence and enlarged vestibular aqueduct

Cristina Brandolini1, Giovanni Carlo Modugno

  • 1Department of Specialistic Surgical and Anesthesiological Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy. cribrandolini@libero.it

International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology
|April 5, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Superior semicircular canal dehiscence, a rare inner ear defect, can occur with an enlarged vestibular aqueduct in children. Early diagnosis is crucial for preserving hearing and preventing symptoms triggered by sound or pressure changes.

Area of Science:

  • Otolaryngology
  • Neuroscience
  • Radiology

Background:

  • Superior semicircular canal dehiscence (SSCD) is a defect of the bony labyrinth.
  • It can be present in the pediatric population.
  • Enlarged vestibular aqueduct (EVA) is another inner ear malformation.

Observation:

  • A 16-year-old female presented with congenital hearing loss.
  • She had no vestibular symptoms.
  • Radiological diagnosis confirmed SSCD and an associated omolateral EVA.

Findings:

  • The co-occurrence of SSCD and EVA creates a third mobile window in the inner ear.
  • This malformation can lead to cochleovestibular symptoms.

Implications:

  • Early diagnosis of SSCD and EVA is essential.
  • Prompt identification can help preserve inner ear function.
  • Understanding these defects aids in managing hearing loss and related symptoms.

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