Noise-induced perilymph fistula.
Perilymph fistulae are difficult to diagnose because they present with a wide variety of signs and symptoms, they are associated with many etiologies, and they often mimic other conditions. In this article, we describe a case of perilymph fistula that featured one of its more rare causes: acoustic trauma--specifically, damage from a loud blast from the siren of a fire engine. We also review the literature and discuss the difficulties of diagnosis and treatment and the possible mechanisms by which acoustic trauma and other etiologies cause perilymph fistulae.
Kung
Brian
B
Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, USA.
Sataloff
Robert T
RT
D000328:Adult; D001301:Audiometry, Pure-Tone; D003052:Cochlear Aqueduct / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery; D015834:Cochlear Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000601:surgery; D004244:Dizziness / Q000209:etiology; D007758:Ear, Inner / Q000473:pathology; D004432:Ear, Middle / Q000601:surgery; D004584:Electronystagmography; D005402:Fistula / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000601:surgery; D006317:Hearing Loss, Noise-Induced / Q000150:complications* / Q000209:etiology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009622:Noise / Q000009:adverse effects*; D014012:Tinnitus / Q000209:etiology