Bilateral aberrant internal carotid arteries.
This case report represents the first well-documented case of aberrant internal carotid arteries in both middle ears. CT and DSA can establish the diagnosis before surgical intervention. Aberrant internal carotid artery represents a rare finding in the differential diagnosis of middle ear masses. Most patients manifest either vertigo, tinnitus, or a variable hearing loss. Clinical findings include a red or blue mass behind the eardrum that may or may not be pulsatile. The otolaryngologist should be aware that this potential landmine may be obscured by serous otitis media. Once suspected, the mass should be evaluated by radiographic studies before surgical intervention.
Campbell
G
G
Division of Otolaryngology, University of Missouri Hospitals and Clinics, Columbia 65212.
Renner
G
G
Estrem
S A
SA
D002343:Carotid Artery, Internal / Q000002:abnormalities*; D004427:Ear Diseases / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery; D004432:Ear, Middle; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008297:Male