[Measuring beta-trace protein for detection of perilymph fistulas].
BACKGROUND
beta-trace protein is an immunological marker for cerebrospinal fluid or inner ear fluids. We present two initial cases in which a beta-trace protein nephelometric assay provided immunological proof of perilymph in samples taken from the nasopharynx.


METHODS
Two cases are presented of an acute vestibulocochlear disorder following stapedotomy. Fluid samples, taken from the nasopharynx, were investigated using beta-trace protein laser nephelometry. The samples were collected using Merocel tamponades, which were left in place over night.


RESULTS
In both cases, the samples were positive for beta-trace protein. Tympanoscopy was performed and the oval window was closed. After tympanoscopy a partial recovery of the hearing impairment was observed.


CONCLUSIONS
Using beta-trace protein, it seems to be possible to diagnose a perilymphatic fistula by noninvasive means.
Bachmann
G
G
Øre-nese-hals-avdelingen, Universitetssykehuset i TromsØ, N-9038 Tromsø
Petereit
H
H
Djenabi
U
U
Michel
O
O
D000328:Adult; D001301:Audiometry, Pure-Tone; D015834:Cochlear Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis*; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005402:Fistula / Q000175:diagnosis*; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D019746:Intramolecular Oxidoreductases / Q000032:analysis*; D054834:Lipocalins; D008297:Male; D010498:Perilymph / Q000737:chemistry*; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000175:diagnosis; D013201:Stapes Surgery
D054834:Lipocalins; D019746:Intramolecular Oxidoreductases; C022466:prostaglandin R2 D-isomerase