Korean J Otolaryngol-Head Neck Surg.  1998 Apr;41(4):448-453.

Diagnosis of Congenital Otogenic CSF Fistula Combined with Recurrent Meningitis in Children

• Yu WS
• Chang SO
• Kwon TK

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Otogenic cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)fistula referrs to the abnormal communication between the CSF and the middle ear space due to defects in the inner ear, and is one of the causes of recurrent meningitis.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
We report on five children with congenital otogenic CSF fistula, presented by recurrent meningitis and confirmed by surgical exploration. We also propose diagnostic steps for detecting otogenic fistula in the children based on our experiences and paper review.
RESULTS
We used the metrizamide CT in the diagnostic procedure for most cases, although not all. The temporal bone CT was an useful initial diagnostic step for clinically suspicious cases.
CONCLUSION
No one test or combination of specific tests were found to accurately predict the presence or absence of CSF fistula. It is thought that the only way to diagnose the CSF fistula is by surgical exploration. If the CSF fistula was suspected, aggressive diagnostic evaluation was needed in order to prevent recurrence.

Keyword

CSF fistula; Recurrent meningitis; Inner ear anomaly

MeSH Terms

Cerebrospinal Fluid
Child*
Diagnosis*
Ear, Inner
Ear, Middle
Fistula*
Humans
Meningitis*
Metrizamide
Recurrence
Temporal Bone
Metrizamide