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A case of bilateral internal auditory canal osteomas.
Maria K Brake1, David P Morris, Jonathan Trites
1Division of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, QE II Health Sciences Centre, 1276 S. Park St., Rm. 826, Victoria Bldg., Halifax NS B3H 2Y9, Canada.
Ear, Nose, & Throat Journal
|January 24, 2014
Summary
Bilateral osteomas of the internal auditory canal are extremely rare. Conservative management led to complete symptom resolution in an 82-year-old woman, challenging the necessity of surgical intervention.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Otolaryngology
- Radiology
Background:
- Osteomas are rare, benign bone growths, typically found at the skull base.
- Internal auditory canal osteomas are exceptionally rare, potentially causing hearing loss, tinnitus, and dizziness.
Observation:
- An 82-year-old woman presented with acute vertigo, experiencing similar but milder episodes previously.
- Imaging revealed bilateral osteomas within the internal auditory canals.
Findings:
- This case represents the third documented instance of bilateral internal auditory canal osteomas.
- Conservative management and monitoring resulted in complete resolution of the patient's vertigo.
Implications:
- Conservative treatment may be a viable option for internal auditory canal osteomas, even with severe symptoms.
- This case highlights the potential for spontaneous symptom resolution, questioning the routine surgical approach.
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