Bilateral oval window fistulae with recurrent meningitis

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Neurosurgery
• Genetics

Background:

• Recurrent meningitis poses significant health risks.
• Congenital stapes footplate defects are rare causes of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks.
• The stapes footplate is crucial for hearing and inner ear protection.

Observation:

• A unique case of recurrent meningitis was identified.
• The patient presented with a congenital defect of the stapes footplate.
• This is the first reported instance demonstrating bilateral stapes footplate defects.

Findings:

• The congenital stapes footplate defect was clearly identified as the cause of recurrent meningitis.
• Bilateral defects were confirmed, indicating a potential genetic or developmental etiology.
• The findings underscore the importance of the stapes footplate in maintaining the integrity of the inner ear and preventing pathogen entry.

Implications:

• This case suggests that bilateral stapes footplate defects may be an underdiagnosed cause of recurrent meningitis.
• Prophylactic exploration of the contralateral ear is recommended for patients with unilateral defects and bilateral sensorineural hearing loss.
• Further research is warranted to understand the prevalence and genetic factors associated with congenital stapes footplate defects.