Superficial siderosis--a cause of audiovestibular failure

Bilateral vestibular end organ failure in adult life is a rare condition with some specific known causes, such as relapsing polychondritis, autoimmune inner ear disease, Lues venerium, and an acute effect of gentamicin. This case report draws attention to a rare condition that is potentially recognizable early in its development. The patient has superficial siderosis, which is iron deposits over the cerebrum, resulting in progressive neurologic failure involving all of the systems. Early in its course before other symptoms appear, there is development of progressive hearing loss and vestibular failure. This case report and literature review are given, including a potential for attempts at therapy if the disorder is recognized early.