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Persistent Stapedial Artery in Adhesive Otitis Media: A Case Report
Norah S AlOtaibi1, Sarah S AlOtaibi1,2, Abdulaziz M AlAbdulkareem3
1College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, SAU.
Cureus
|September 16, 2024
Summary
A persistent stapedial artery (PSA) is a rare remnant that can cause hearing loss and tinnitus. Early identification via clinical and radiological assessment is crucial to prevent surgical complications.
Area of Science:
- Embryology
- Vascular Anatomy
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- A persistent stapedial artery (PSA) is a rare embryologic remnant, typically involuting by week 10 of gestation.
- Failure of involution can lead to significant clinical manifestations, including conductive hearing loss and pulsatile tinnitus.
- Accurate identification of PSA is critical for otological surgery to avoid intraoperative complications.
Observation:
- A 24-year-old female presented with chronic ear discharge.
- The patient also reported pulsatile tinnitus and conductive hearing loss.
- Otoscopic examination revealed an incidental finding consistent with a PSA.
Findings:
- The case highlights a rare presentation of a persistent stapedial artery.
- The anomaly was incidentally discovered during the assessment of a chronically discharging ear.
- The patient exhibited symptoms of conductive hearing loss and pulsatile tinnitus secondary to the PSA.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of thorough clinical and radiological evaluation in otology.
- Recognizing a PSA can prevent serious intraoperative complications during ear surgery.
- Early diagnosis of vascular anomalies like PSA improves patient outcomes and surgical safety.
