Otologic manifestations of benign intracranial hypertension syndrome: diagnosis and management

What should otolaryngologists know about dural venous sinus stenting?

Dural venous sinus stenting is an emerging and exciting area in otolaryngology in collaboration with neurosurgeons and neuroradiologists. The first cases were reported 20 years ago. It is now considered part of the routine treatment of increased intracranial pressure due to transverse sinus stenosis. ENT doctors are the first to see these patients in their clinics, as sinus headaches, pulsating tinnitus, and dizziness are the most common symptoms. Previously, with limited success, high-dose diuretics and intracranial shunts had been the only options for treating these patients. Other methods, such as covering the sigmoid sinuses with graft material, appear to cause a sudden increase in intracranial pressure that can lead to blindness and even death. This overview summarizes the clinical and imaging characteristics of patients who will benefit from endovascular sinus stenting for elevated intracranial pressure.

Clinical Predictors of Pulsatile Tinnitus in Patients With Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension: An Age-Matched Cohort Study

INTRODUCTION

Pulsatile tinnitus (PT) occurs in many but not all patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH). It is poorly understood why some patients with IIH develop PT, yet others do not. The purpose of this study was to determine if any clinical findings differ between those with and without PT in IIH, potentially shedding light on a pathophysiologic mechanism.

METHODS

Age-matched cohort analysis of patients with documented IIH and presence or absence of PT was performed, collecting data including body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, visual acuity, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) opening pressure, sleep apnea, migraines, and transient visual obscurations, among others. Independent-sample t test and χ2 test were used to analyze continuous and binary variables, respectively, with multivariate analysis conducted including variables statistically significant on univariate analysis.

RESULTS

Eighty subjects with IIH met the inclusion criteria (40 PT+, 40 PT-). CSF opening pressure showed no significant difference between the two groups. The PT+ cohort was found to have an average BMI of 45.1 kg/m 2 , which was significantly higher than the PT- group (37.7 kg/m 2 ; p = 0.0023). PT+ pulse pressure (60.1 mm Hg) was also significantly higher than the PT- group (51.6 mm Hg; p = 0.019). PT+ patients were also significantly more likely to have sleep apnea ( p < 0.001) and migraines ( p = 0.0036). Multiple logistic regression revealed an adjusted odds ratio of 13.9 for sleep apnea, 4.1 for migraines, and 1.01 for every increase in unit of BMI.

CONCLUSION

Among patients with IIH, presence of PT is associated with higher BMI and pulse pressure, and increased incidence of sleep apnea and migraines. Given no significant difference in CSF pressures between the two groups, PT may not be a product of increased disease severity but may be related to sequelae of obesity, such as increased pulse pressure and sleep apnea.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging Findings in Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension With and Without Pulsatile Tinnitus: An Age-Matched Cohort Study

OBJECTIVE

Many but not all patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) have pulsatile tinnitus (PT). However, little is known about why some patients with IIH develop PT and others do not. The purpose of this study was to determine if any of the classic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-detectable markers of IIH differ between patients with and without PT, thereby shedding light on potential pathophysiology.

METHODS

A retrospective age-matched cohort study of patients with documented IIH (diagnosed by neuro-ophthalmologist) was performed. All patients had MRI performed around the time of diagnosis. MRIs were assessed for 16 variables known to be associated with IIH (e.g., pituitary displacement/empty sella, optic nerve tortuosity, transverse sinus stenosis, inferior cerebellar tonsils, arachnoid granulations, slit-like ventricles) by two blinded neuroradiologists. All binary variables were analyzed via χ2 test with Yates correction, or Fisher exact when appropriate. Continuous variables were analyzed via Student t test. Inter-rater reliability for binary variables was assessed by Cohen κ. For continuous variables, intraclass correlation coefficient was calculated.

RESULTS

Forty age-matched patients with IIH met the inclusion criteria (20 with PT, 20 without PT). For all known binary MRI findings associated with IIH, there were no statistically significant differences between groups. Likewise, there were no statistically significant differences for continuous variables.

CONCLUSIONS

The classic MRI findings associated with IIH do not differ between patients with and without PT, suggesting that systemic (rather than localized intrinsic or extrinsic) factors may play a critical role in the pathophysiology.

A Systematic Review on Whether an Association Exists Between Adolescent Obesity and Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension

Pseudotumor cerebri syndrome (PTCS)/idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is a clinical presentation appertaining to signs/symptoms of raised intracranial pressure, like headache and papilledema. It is an uncommon but clinically significant cause of morbidity such as permanent vision loss. It is crucial to understand if idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is on the rise in adolescents, it is probably due to the rising prevalence of obesity worldwide. Our study aimed to find an association between obesity and IIH in adolescents. We utilized Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis 2020 (PRISMA) guidelines to run this systematic review. Many publications related to the topic in the discussion were scrutinized through a comprehensive database search. We filtered them down to a final count of 10 articles after utilizing our inclusion/exclusion criteria and assessing the quality of work. In these final papers, we identified several possibilities to explain the link between obesity and IIH in adolescents. Overweight and obese adolescents were found to have a significantly increased risk of IIH development, with a more severe clinical picture seen in morbidly obese female patients.

Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension: Implications for the Otolaryngologist

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is a triad of headaches, visual changes, and papilledema in the absence of a secondary cause for elevated intracranial pressure. There is an association with obesity, and the incidence is rising in parallel with the obesity epidemic. Sometimes these patients present to an otolaryngologist with complaints like tinnitus, dizziness, hearing loss, and otorrhea or rhinorrhea from cerebrospinal fluid leak. IIH diagnosis in conjunction with neurology and ophthalmology, including neuroimaging and lumbar puncture with opening pressure, is key to managing of this condition. Otolaryngologists should recognize IIH as a possible diagnosis and initiate appropriate referrals and treatment.

Preoperative Significance of Ipsilateral Manual Neck Compression in Patients With Pulsatile Tinnitus Secondary to Sigmoid Sinus Dehiscences and Diverticula

Venous pulsatile tinnitus (PT) is characterized by an auditory perception of pulse-synchronous sound, suppressed by compression of the ipsilateral internal jugular vein. We sought to determine the preoperative prognostic significance of the effect of ipsilateral neck manual compression on the PT loudness and audiometric changes in patients with sigmoid sinus dehiscences (SS-Deh) and diverticula (SS-Div) by comparing postoperative improvements in ipsilateral low-frequency hearing loss (LFHL) in pure-tone audiogram (PTA) and PT symptoms. Twenty-two subjects with PT originating from SS-Deh/Div were recruited. Air-conduction hearing thresholds were measured using PTA at three time points: twice preoperatively (with neutral neck position and with ipsilateral manual compression of internal jugular vein) and once at 3-months postoperatively with neutral neck position. We defined a positive neck compression effect as a threshold improvement of ≥ 10 dB HL at 250 or 500 Hz after manual neck compression. All but two subjects presented with ipsilateral LFHL in the neutral position. The average hearing threshold in the neutral position markedly improved after manual neck compression, indicating that LFHL originated from the masking effect of venous PT. All subjects had subjective improvements in PT and LFHL after sigmoid sinus surgeries, confirming that LFHL resulted from the masking effect of PT. Additionally, improvement of LFHL after neck compression could be regarded as a positive prognostic indicator after surgery. Collectively, elimination of PT loudness and improvement of LFHL with manual compression over the ipsilateral neck may suggest the venous origin of the PT and predict a favorable outcome following repair of SS-Deh/SS-Div.

Neurosurgical Causes of Pulsatile Tinnitus: Contemporary Update

Traditionally in the domain of the otolaryngologist, pulsatile tinnitus (PT) has become increasingly relevant to neurosurgeons. PT may prove to be a harbinger of life-threatening pathology; however, often, it is a marker of a more benign process. Irrespectively, the neurosurgeon should be familiar with the many potential etiologies of this unique and challenging patient population. In this review, we discuss the myriad causes of PT, categorized by pulse-phase rhythmicity.

Clinical features and the role of magnetic resonance imaging in pediatric patients with intracranial hypertension

Increased intracranial hypertension (IIH) is a defined clinical condition; however, an unsolved pathophysiologic background usually creates problems in its diagnosis and proper approach. The aim of this study was to emphasize the clinical conditions and brain magnetic resonce imaging (MRI) clues of pediatric patients, especially this clinical entity with high morbidity. Here, we review the etiology, clinical presentation, brain MRI findings, and prognosis of IIH in children. The symptoms' onset age ranged from 9 months to 16 years. Headache (81%), vomiting (37%), and diplopia (33.3%) were the most frequent symptoms. The most common etiologic factors were found to be obesity and dural venous sinus thrombosis. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) opening pressure had mean a mean value of 615.2 ± 248 mm H₂O. A significant relationship was found between visual field impairment and height of CSF pressure (p < 0.001). Optic nerve sheath enlargement (88.8%) and optic nerve tortuosity (85.1%) were found as the most common brain MRI findings. Slit-like ventricle (37%), venous sinus thrombosis (29.6%), posterior globe sclera flattening (29.6%), empty sella (25.9%), and intraocular protrusion of the optic nerve (14.8%) were the other findings. A significant relationship was found between CSF opening pressure and the presence of optic nerve tortuosity (p = 0.002), and distension of the optic nerve sheath (p = 0.006). All patients received acetazolamide, only one patient underwent lumboperitoneal shunt, and only one received steroids. In children, IIH can present with different etiologies and symptoms. Brain MRI provides crucial clues in diagnosis. Urgent diagnosis and treatment planning are required to protect vision functions.

Sensorineural Hearing Loss and Tinnitus Characteristics in Patients With Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension

OBJECTIVES

To characterize patterns of sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) and tinnitus in patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH).

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective chart review.

SETTING

Tertiary referral center.

PATIENTS

Adult patients diagnosed with IIH via lumbar puncture (LP) between 2010 and 2020 who had available audiograms. The study included a total of 40 patients; 33 women, and 7 men with a median age of 43.

INTERVENTIONS

Diagnostic LP and audiogram.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Otologic symptoms, ophthalmologic signs, hearing thresholds, cerebrospinal fluid opening pressures.

RESULTS

The most commonly reported symptoms were tinnitus in 28 (70%, 23 pulsatile and 5 tonal), aural fullness in 11 (28%), and vertigo in 10 (25%). Twenty-nine patients had ophthalmologic examinations and 18 had evidence of papilledema. Twenty-five (63%) patients had hearing loss in at least one ear at one frequency range. Patients presented with both unilateral and bilateral hearing loss across low, middle, and high frequency ranges. No significant association was observed between hearing loss threshold and LP opening pressure except for 250 Hz in the left ear. After stratification by tinnitus group (pulsatile, tonal, and no tinnitus), no significant difference was found between mean hearing loss threshold at different frequencies. In addition, no significant mean age difference was identified in patients within each tinnitus group.

CONCLUSIONS

There was no classic pattern or presentation for hearing loss in our IIH patients. They developed sudden, unilateral, or bilateral SNHL in low, middle, or high frequency range. The degree of hearing loss did not correlate with CSF opening pressure.

Tinnitus and 3-Year Change in Audiometric Hearing Thresholds

OBJECTIVES

Tinnitus and hearing loss commonly coexist, however, the temporal relation between tinnitus and hearing loss is complex and not fully understood. Our objective was to examine the longitudinal association between persistent tinnitus, bothersome tinnitus, and 3-year elevation of audiometric hearing thresholds.

DESIGN

We conducted a longitudinal cohort study among 3106 women (mean age 59 years) who were participants in the Nurses' Health Study II (2012-2018). Information on tinnitus was obtained from biennial questionnaires. Longitudinal changes in air conduction thresholds (0.5 to 8 kHz) were assessed by pure-tone audiometry conducted by licensed audiologists at 19 audiology testing sites across the United States. Logistic regression was used to estimate multivariable-adjusted odds ratios (MVORs, 95% confidence interval [CI]) and evaluate the relations of persistent tinnitus (several days per week or more), bothersome tinnitus (interferes with work, sleep, or daily activities), and risk of 3-year elevation of hearing thresholds.

RESULTS

Persistent tinnitus was associated with higher risk of 3-year elevation of hearing thresholds across a broad range of frequencies. Compared with women without tinnitus, the MVORs (95% CI) for ≥5-dB threshold elevation among women with persistent tinnitus were 1.01 (0.81, 1.25) at 0.5 kHz, 1.45 (1.17, 1.81) at 1 kHz, 1.25 (1.00, 1.56) at 2 kHz, 1.34 (1.07, 1.69) at 3 kHz, 1.34 (1.06, 1.70) at 4 kHz, 1.49 (1.16, 1.91) at 6 kHz, and 1.63 (1.25, 2.12) at 8 kHz. The magnitudes of the associations for ≥10-dB threshold elevation were similar. The magnitudes of the associations were substantially greater among women with bothersome tinnitus. For example, compared with women without tinnitus, the MVORs (95% CI) for a ≥5- and ≥10-dB elevation of hearing thresholds at 4 kHz were 2.97 (1.50, 5.89) and 2.79 (1.38, 5.65), respectively. The risk was elevated even among women with tinnitus who had clinically normal hearing thresholds at baseline. In analyses that examined the association of tinnitus and elevation of low-, mid- and high-frequency pure-tone average (PTA) hearing thresholds, the results were similar. Compared with women without tinnitus, the MVORs (95% CI) for ≥5-dB PTA elevation among women with persistent tinnitus were 1.29 (0.99,1.67) for LPTA(0.5,1,2 kHz); 1.44 (1.16, 1.78) for MPTA(3,4 kHz); and 1.38 (1.11, 1.71) for HPTA(6,8 kHz). For ≥10-dB elevation, the MVORs were 2.85 (1.55, 5.23), 1.52 (1.10, 2.09), and 1.41 (1.10, 1.82), respectively.

CONCLUSION

Persistent tinnitus was associated with substantially higher risk of 3-year hearing threshold elevation, even among women with clinically normal baseline hearing. The magnitudes of the associations were greater among those with bothersome tinnitus. Monitoring hearing sensitivities may be indicated in patients with tinnitus, including those without audiometric evidence of hearing impairment.

Associations among Audiometric, Doppler Hydroacoustic, and Subjective Outcomes of Venous Pulsatile Tinnitus

OBJECTIVE

Venous pulsatile tinnitus (PT) has received increasing attention recently. As analyses of psychophysical and neuropsychological dimensions of venous PT are lacking, this study aimed to quantitatively and qualitatively investigate the correlation among audiometric, hydroacoustic, and subjective outcomes in patients with PT.

METHODS

Fifty-five venous PT patients, with or without sigmoid sinus wall anomalies (SSWAs), were subdivided into SSWAs (n = 30) and non-SSWAs (n = 25) groups. Audiometric and hemodynamic evaluations were assessed. Questionnaires including the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS) were deployed to evaluate the psychological impacts of PT.

RESULTS

Among 55 subjects, PT frequency-related pure-tone audiometry (PTA) was significantly different between ipsilesional non-PT frequency-related PTA (p < 0.01), ipsilateral jugular vein compression PTA (p < 0.01), and contralesional ear PTA (p < 0.01). In contrast with the pulsatility index and flow velocity, bilateral EOET and flow volume were significantly different (p < 0.01). Of the 3 questionnaire types, there was a strong correlation between HADS anxiety and AIS scores (r = 0.658, p < 0.01). The duration of PT was not correlated with subjective outcomes, and there was no statistical significance found among audiometric, hemodynamic, and subjective outcomes between SSWAs and non-SSWAs groups.

CONCLUSIONS

(1) The duration of PT was irrelevant to the increase of PTA. (2) Venous PT is the perception of vascular flow sound, in which hydroacoustic characteristics can be highly independent. (3) Anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders commonly prevail among PT patients.

Detecting causes of pulsatile tinnitus on CT arteriography-venography: A pictorial review

Pulsatile tinnitus (PT) can be a mild or debilitating symptom. Following clinical examination and otoscopy, when the underlying aetiology is not apparent, radiological imaging can be used to evaluate further. CT arteriography-venography (CT A-V) of the head and neck has recently been introduced as a single 'one catch' modality for identifying the many causes of PT including those which are treatable and potentially serious whilst also providing reassurance through negative studies or studies with benign findings. CT A-V is performed as a single phase study allowing both arterial and venous assessment, hence limiting radiation exposure. Additional multiplanar reformats and bone reconstructions are desirable. Understanding the limitations of CT A-V is also required, with an awareness of the scenarios where other imaging modalities should be considered. The causes of PT can be divided into systemic and non-systemic categories. Non-systemic aetiologies in the head and neck should be carefully reviewed on CT A-V and include a variety of vascular causes (arteriovenous malformations/fistulas, venous or arterial aetiologies) and non-vascular causes (tumours and bony dysplasias). Venous causes (dominant, aberrant, stenosed or thrombosed venous vessels) are more common than arterial aetiologies (aberrant or stenosed internal carotid artery, aneurysms or a persistent stapedial artery). Glomus tumours that are not visible on otoscopy and osseous pathologies such as bony dehiscence and otospongiosis should also be excluded. Careful assessment of all the potential vascular and non-vascular causes should be reviewed in a systematic approach, with correlation made with the clinical history. A structured reporting template for the reporting radiologist is provided in this review to ensure all the potential causes of PT are considered on a CT A-V study. This will help in providing a comprehensive radiological evaluation, hence justifying the radiation dose and for patient assessment and prognostication.

Hydroacoustic analysis and extraluminal compression surgical insights of venous pulsatile tinnitus

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to quantitatively and qualitatively evaluate the hydroacoustic changes from "presence" to "disappearance" of pulsatile tinnitus (PT) with the extraluminal compression surgical technique. The recent issues of concern pertaining to the hydroacoustic characteristics of sigmoid sinus wall anomalies and distal transverse sinus stenosis (dTSS) were discussed.

METHODS

This study was based on a retrospective case series. Seventy-seven patients with PT and transverse-sigmoid sinus enlargement with or without transverse-sigmoid sinus junction anomalies and transverse sinus stenosis (TSS) who had undergone extraluminal compression surgery under local anesthesia were included. Management of intractable intraoperative challenges and techniques for reversal extraluminal compression were introduced. Anatomical measurements, intraoperative color-coded Doppler ultrasonography, spectro-temporal analysis, and computational fluid dynamics were employed to analyze the hydroacoustic characteristics of PT.

RESULTS

The efficacy of the extraluminal compression technique was evident with the significant reduction in peak turbulent kinetic energy, vorticity, and mean pressure gradient at the transverse-sigmoid junction, resulting in over 20% reduction in PT amplitude. dTSS is a common finding in patients with PT exhibiting transverse-sigmoid sinus enlargement. Patients with dTSS presented with significant differences in hemodynamic characteristics as compared to those without. Linear regression analysis showed that the flow disturbance (turbulent kinetic energy and vorticity) was closely associated with the degree of dTSS, whereas the flow amplitude was not related to the degree or location of TSS. Low-pulsatory vortex flow at the transverse-sigmoid junction was visualized during an intraoperative color-coded Doppler examination, and the displayed low-frequency PT sound corresponded to the patients' subjective perception of PT.

CONCLUSION

(1) A reduction of over 20% of the flow-induced noise is the therapeutic goal of extraluminal compression technique. Since reductions in the magnitude of hemodynamic parameters, including turbulent kinetic energy, vorticity, and mean pressure gradient, render the flow-induced noise inaudible, besides sigmoid sinus wall anomalies, it is likely that PT develops from the aggregation of flow-based pathologies. (2) Although dTSS and diverticulum may greatly affect the hemodynamics at the transverse-sigmoid junction, in contrast to dehiscence, dTSS and diverticulum may not be the limiting factors for PT development.

Atypical presentations of idiopathic intracranial hypertension

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is a disorder of unknown etiology that results in isolated raised intracranial pressure. Classic symptoms and signs of IIH include headache, papilledema, diplopia from sixth nerve palsy and divergence insufficiency, and pulsatile tinnitus. Atypical presentations include: (1) highly asymmetric or even unilateral papilledema, and IIH without papilledema; (2) ocular motor disturbances from third nerve palsy, fourth nerve palsy, internuclear ophthalmoplegia, diffuse ophthalmoplegia, and skew deviation; (3) olfactory dysfunction; (4) trigeminal nerve dysfunction; (5) facial nerve dysfunction; (6) hearing loss and vestibular dysfunction; (7) lower cranial nerve dysfunction including deviated uvula, torticollis, and tongue weakness; (8) spontaneous skull base cerebrospinal fluid leak; and (9) seizures. Although atypical findings should raise a red flag and prompt further investigation for an alternative etiology, clinicians should be familiar with these unusual presentations.

Transtemporal Venous Decompression for Idiopathic Venous Pulsatile Tinnitus

Objective To evaluate the clinical characteristics and present surgical outcomes of transtemporal venous decompression technique in the treatment of pulsatile tinnitus (PT).

Study Design This is a prospective cohort study.

Setting This study was done at the tertiary private neurotologic skull base clinic.

Participants The primary author, between March 2012 and February 2013, evaluated 55 patients with the complaint of PT. Seven out of the 55 patients were diagnosed with severe, unrelenting idiopathic pulsatile tinnitus (IPT), and were placed into the study. These seven patients had temporal bone computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, arteriogram, videonystagmography, electrocochleography, and lumbar puncture based on the symptoms. All the seven patients underwent transtemporal venous decompression surgery.

Main Outcome Measure Resolution of PT was determined as the primary outcome measure.

Results Six out of seven patients had complete resolution of their PT immediately after surgery and at 3 to 4 years follow-up. One patient developed intracranial hypertension after 3 months requiring ventriculoperitoneal shunt, which resolved PT as well. No complications occurred.

Conclusion A significant subset of the PT patient population has known reversible causes. The more common includes conductive hearing loss, superior canal dehiscence, benign intracranial hypertension, jugulosigmoid venous anomalies, stapedial myoclonus, etc. There exists a subset of patients who have IPT. Transtemporal venous decompression is a surgical technique that can be employed to give patients with IPT long-term relief.

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension in patients with anemia: A retrospective observational study

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) mostly affects obese women in childbearing age, leading to frustrating headache and permanent visual impairment. The exact etiology of this condition is poorly understood, and the population at risk and clinical presentation seems to be homogeneous. However, little attention has been paid to the clinical features of IIH patients with anemia. We herein performed a retrospective observational study by using the data of patients with presumed IIH who were referred to the neurology department of Beijing Tongren Hospital from January 2014 to August 2019 to describe the clinical features and radiological findings in patients with IIH and anemia, and compared these with those without anemia. The patients were divided into two groups based on the presence of anemic diseases. Clinical data including demographic characteristics, clinical features, past medical history, laboratory and neuroradiological findings, diagnoses, treatments and prognosis of these patients were reviewed and compared in both the groups. A total of 153 patients with IIH were enrolled, which included 22 cases with anemia (mean age, 33.23±9.68 years; 19 [86.36%] female) and 131 cases without anemia (mean age 37.11±11.56 years; 97 [74.05%] female). In the anemia group, 19/22 cases had iron deficiency anemia and 3/22 had renal anemia. Compared with patients in the non-anemia group, IIH patients with anemia had a shorter disease course, and tended to present pulsatile tinnitus and transverse sinus stenosis (TSS), faster and better prognosis after treatments for correcting anemia and reducing intracranial pressure. Our findings highlighted the importance of obtaining full blood counts in IIH patients with subacute onset, and provided appropriate and prompt treatments if proven anemic in order to bring better outcomes.

Pulsatile tinnitus caused by pneumocephalus after Janneta surgery

Pulsatile tinnitus of nonvascular origin is rare. We herein present a case of pulsatile tinnitus complicated with Jannetta surgery due to a communication created between the drilled mastoid cells and epidural space. She was successfully cured by otological surgery where the mastoid tip was packed with bone cement. A 68-year-old woman was referred to the previous hospital with complaints of right autophony, aural fullness, hyperacusis to her footsteps, and pulsatile tinnitus for the past three years. She had received Jannetta surgery for right hemifacial spasm seven years before. The computed tomography (CT) of the right temporal bone showed bony dehiscence between the mastoid cells and posterior cranial fossa. She underwent otological surgery to obliterate the tip of the mastoid cavity with artificial bone cement (BIOPEX^Ⓡ) under general anesthesia. Her annoying aural symptoms were immediately abolished and she has been free from symptoms at ten months after surgery. It is critical to ensure the closure of any communication created between the middle ear and epidural space during surgeries in order to prevent the occurrence of pulsatile tinnitus.

Tympanic Resonance Hypothesis

Seemingly unrelated symptoms in the head and neck region are eliminated when a patch is applied on specific locations on the Tympanic Membrane. Clinically, two distinct patient populations can be distinguished; cervical and masticatory muscle tensions are involved, and mental moods of anxiety or need. Clinical observations lead to the hypothesis of a “Tympanic Resonance Regulating System.” Its controller, the Trigeminocervical complex, integrates external auditory, somatosensory, and central impulses. It modulates auditory attention, and directs it toward unpredictable external or expected domestic and internal sounds: peripherally by shifting the resonance frequencies of the Tympanic Membrane; centrally by influencing the throughput of auditory information to the neural attention networks that toggle between scanning and focusing; and thus altering the perception of auditory information. The hypothesis leads to the assumption that the Trigeminocervical complex is composed of a dorsal component, and a ventral one which may overlap with the concept of “Trigeminovagal complex.” “Tympanic Dissonance” results in a host of local and distant symptoms, most of which can be attributed to activation of the Trigeminocervical complex. Diagnostic and therapeutic measures for this “Tympanic Dissonance Syndrome” are suggested.

Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension is a syndrome of increased intracranial pressure of unclear etiology that most often occurs in obese women of childbearing age but can also occur in men, children, and older adults. This article reviews the diagnostic criteria, clinical features, neuroimaging findings, differential diagnosis, and management options for this condition.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent population studies have found that the annual incidence of idiopathic intracranial hypertension is increasing in association with obesity rates, whereas recent scientific studies indicate a possible role for androgen sex hormones and adipose tissue in the pathogenesis of the disease. Prospective clinical trials have demonstrated a role for weight loss, acetazolamide, and topiramate in the management of mild disease. A recently begun randomized multicenter trial of surgical interventions will provide insight into the indications for surgical intervention, optimal timing and choice of intervention, and long-term outcomes.

SUMMARY

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension is a disorder producing symptoms and signs of increased intracranial pressure in the absence of an alternative cause. The main goals of treatment are to preserve visual function and alleviate symptoms, which can usually be achieved with a combination of weight loss, medical therapies, and surgical interventions depending on the severity of symptoms and vision loss, response to treatment, and subsequent clinical course.

Clinical features of patients with high and normal CSFP in venous pulsating tinnitus

Background: Few doctors associate high cerebrospinal fluid pressure (CSFP) with vascular tinnitus. On the basis of predecessors, we found there were some differences in clinical data between patients with elevated versus normal CSFP.Aims/objectives: To explore the differences in clinical data between the elevated CSFP group and the normal CSFP group.Materials and methods: A total of 27 patients with venous pulsating tinnitus who underwent measurement of CSFP through IP were reviewed. Clinical data were compared between the two groups.Result: Twelve patients (44.44%) had high CSFP ranging from 210-245 mm H₂O. Fifteen cases (55.56%) had normal CSFP ranging from 120-190 mm H₂O. Tinnitus disappeared for several hours after IP in 9 patients in thehigh CSFP group but none of the patients in the normal CSFP group, and this difference was significant (p < .001). The mean tinnitus handicap inventory (THI) and visual analog scale (VAS) were 90.33 ± 3.06 and 8.25 ± 0.83, respectively, in the high CSFP group and 83.73 ± 2.81 and 7.73 ± 0.93, respectively, in the normal CSFP group. These differences were statistically significant (p < .001).Conclusion and significance: Patients in the high CSFP group had more severe tinnitus scores. Tinnitus temporarily disappeared after IP in some patients with high CSFP.

Empty Sella Is a Sign of Symptomatic Lateral Sinus Stenosis and Not Intracranial Hypertension

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Empty sella has been reported in patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension and is thought to be a sign of elevation of intracranial pressure. However, it can also be found in patients with lateral sinus stenosis presenting with isolated pulsatile tinnitus without signs of intracranial hypertension. We hypothesized that the volume of the sella turcica would be similar in both groups of patients undergoing stent placement for lateral sinus stenosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Consecutive patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension or isolated venous pulsatile tinnitus and undergoing lateral sinus stent placement from January 2012 to December 2017 were included. The primary outcome was the estimated volume of the sella turcica based on preoperative CTA measurements. The ratio of the pituitary gland height/sellar height was calculated on preoperative MR imaging. Sellar volumes were compared among the 3 groups: pulsatile tinnitus, idiopathic intracranial hypertension, and a control group, matched by age and sex.

RESULTS

Eighty-eight patients underwent lateral sinus stent placement. The median age was 37 years, and 94% were women. No difference in age, sex, or body mass index was found among the groups. Patients undergoing venous stent placement had significantly higher sellar volumes than the control group (P < 0.001). There was no difference in the sellar volumes (P = .63) or gland/sellar height ratios (P = .25) between the pulsatile tinnitus and idiopathic intracranial hypertension groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Empty sella is found in 2 differing groups of patients undergoing lateral sinus stent placement, suggesting that it is a radiologic sign of symptomatic hemodynamic lateral sinus stenosis rather than elevated intracranial pressure.

Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension: Review of Clinical Syndrome, Imaging Findings, and Treatment

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is a syndrome of unknown cause that is increasing in frequency. Patients who are typically women of childbearing age and obese present with headaches and may also present with visual changes that may become chronic. The purpose of this review is to describe the possible mechanisms for this disease and also to illustrate the ever increasing role of imaging in the diagnosis of this disorder. In addition, the various methods of treatment including medical and surgical will be reviewed. The fact that idiopathic intracranial hypertension has undergone many name changes over the years serves as a reminder that the underlying mechanism is still not well understood. Although there are only several possible mechanisms that can cause increased intracranial pressure, it is still not certain which of these mechanisms is involved. The role of imaging has significantly changed in the evaluation of patients with possible IIH. First, it is involved in ruling out secondary causes of increased intracranial pressure. In addition, there is now ample evidence that the previously held belief that imaging of patients with IIH should be normal is incorrect but rather that there are several subtle findings that radiologists need to look for. These findings include a partially empty sella, flattening of the posterior globe, cupping of optic disks and distension of the optic nerve sheaths. In addition, the role of intracranial venography is playing an ever increasing role due to the finding that a very high percentage of patients have dural venous sinus stenoses. It is becoming clear that there is potentially true morbidity associated with idiopathic intracranial hypertension. The earlier the disease can be diagnosed, the earlier treatment can be started to minimalize permanent visual changes including blindness. Treatment varies from institution to institution due to the fact that multiple specialists with different perspectives treat these patients. Knowledge of subtle imaging features associated with idiopathic intracranial hypertension can help radiologists establish the diagnosis earlier and potentially prevent complications of this disorder. However imaging has not as of yet been shown to be beneficial in managing patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension.

Systematic Review of Temporal Bone-Resurfacing Techniques for Pulsatile Tinnitus Associated with Vascular Wall Anomalies

OBJECTIVE

To systematically review literature evidence on temporal bone-resurfacing techniques for pulsatile tinnitus (PT) associated with vascular wall anomalies.

DATA SOURCES

We searched PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Database. The period covered was from 1962 to 2018.

REVIEW METHODS

We included studies in all languages that reported resurfacing outcomes for patients with PT and radiographic evidence or direct visualization of sigmoid sinus wall anomaly, jugular bulb wall anomaly, or dehiscent or aberrant internal carotid artery.

RESULTS

Of 954 citations retrieved in database searches and 5 citations retrieved from reference lists, 20 studies with a total of 141 resurfacing cases involving 138 patients were included. Resurfacing outcomes for arterial sources of PT showed 3 of 5 cases (60%) with complete resolution and 2 (40%) with partial resolution. Jugular bulb sources of PT showed 11 of 14 cases (79%) with complete resolution and 1 (7%) with partial resolution. Sigmoid sinus sources of PT showed 91 of 121 cases (75%) with complete resolution and 12 (10%) with partial resolution. Symptoms occurred more in females and on the right side. Most cases (94%) used hard-density materials for resurfacing. Material density did not appear to be associated with resurfacing outcomes. Use of autologous materials was associated with improved outcomes for arterial sources resurfacing. Major complications involving sigmoid sinus thrombosis or compression were reported in 4% of cases without long-term morbidity or mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Resurfacing surgery is likely effective and well tolerated for select patients with PT associated with various vascular wall anomalies.

Comorbidities confounding the outcomes of surgery for third window syndrome: Outlier analysis

Objective

Patients with third window syndrome and superior semicircular canal dehiscence (SSCD) symptoms whose surgical outcomes placed them as outliers were systematically studied to determine comorbidities that were responsible for their poor outcomes due to these confounding factors.

Study Design

Observational analytic case-control study in a tertiary referral center.

Methods

Twelve adult patients with clinical SSCD syndrome underwent surgical management and had outcomes that did not resolve all of their subjective symptoms. In addition to one of the neurotologists, 2 neurologists (one specializing in migraine and the other a neuro-ophthalmologist), and a psychologist clinician-investigator completed comprehensive evaluations. Neuropsychology test batteries included: the Millon Behavioral Medicine Diagnostic; Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder Screener (GAD-7); Adverse Childhood Experiences Scale; the Wide Range Assessment of Memory and Learning, including the 3 domains of verbal memory, visual memory, and attention/concentration; Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale; and the Delis-Kaplan Executive Function System. The control cohort was comprised of 17 participants who previously underwent surgery for third window syndrome that resulted in the expected outcomes of resolution of their third window syndrome symptoms and cognitive dysfunction.

Results

There was a high rate of psychological comorbidity (n = 6) in the outlier cohort; multiple traumatic brain injuries were also a confounding element (n = 10). One patient had elevated cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pressure requiring ventriculoperitoneal shunting to control the recurrence of dehiscence and one patient with a drug-induced Parkinson-like syndrome and idiopathic progressive neurological degenerative process.

Conclusions

Components of the Millon Behavioral Medicine Diagnostic, PHQ-9 and GAD-7 results suggest that these instruments would be useful as screening tools preoperatively to identify psychological comorbidities that could confound outcomes. The identification of these comorbid psychological as well as other neurological degenerative disease processes led to alternate clinical management pathways for these patients.

Level of Evidence

2b.

Sigmoid Sinus Diverticulum, Dehiscence, and Venous Sinus Stenosis: Potential Causes of Pulsatile Tinnitus in Patients with Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension?

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Pulsatile tinnitus is experienced by most patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension. The pathophysiology remains uncertain; however, transverse sinus stenosis and sigmoid sinus diverticulum/dehiscence have been proposed as potential etiologies. We aimed to determine whether the prevalence of transverse sinus stenosis and sigmoid sinus diverticulum/dehiscence was increased in patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension and pulsatile tinnitus relative to those without pulsatile tinnitus and a control group.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

CT vascular studies of patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension with pulsatile tinnitus (n = 42), without pulsatile tinnitus (n = 37), and controls (n = 75) were independently reviewed for the presence of severe transverse sinus stenosis and sigmoid sinus diverticulum/dehiscence according to published criteria. The prevalence of transverse sinus stenosis and sigmoid sinus diverticulum/dehiscence in patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension with pulsatile tinnitus was compared with that in the nonpulsatile tinnitus idiopathic intracranial hypertension group and the control group. Further comparisons included differing degrees of transverse sinus stenosis (50% and 75%), laterality of transverse sinus stenosis/sigmoid sinus diverticulum/dehiscence, and ipsilateral transverse sinus stenosis combined with sigmoid sinus diverticulum/dehiscence.

RESULTS

Severe bilateral transverse sinus stenoses were more frequent in patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension than in controls (P < .001), but there was no significant association between transverse sinus stenosis and pulsatile tinnitus within the idiopathic intracranial hypertension group. Sigmoid sinus dehiscence (right- or left-sided) was also more common in patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension compared with controls (P = .01), but there was no significant association with pulsatile tinnitus within the idiopathic intracranial hypertension group.

CONCLUSIONS

While our data corroborate previous studies demonstrating increased prevalence of sigmoid sinus diverticulum/dehiscence and transverse sinus stenosis in idiopathic intracranial hypertension, we did not establish an increased prevalence in patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension with pulsatile tinnitus compared with those without. It is therefore unlikely that these entities represent a direct structural correlate of pulsatile tinnitus in patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension.

Radiographic Evidence of Occult Intracranial Hypertension in Patients with Ménière’s Disease

Objectives

(1) Describe the prevalence of radiographic signs of intracranial hypertension (ICH) in Ménière’s disease (MD) and (2) compare the prevalence of radiographic signs of ICH in MD patients managed medically to those managed surgically.

Study Design

Case-control study.

Setting

Academic neurotologic practice.

Subjects and Methods

Adult MD patients (aged ≥17 years) treated from 2011 to 2015 were reviewed. Inclusion required magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the head and follow-up >6 months. Patients with intracranial tumors, mass effect, trauma, previous intracranial surgery, and glaucoma were excluded. MD patients were separated by administered treatment into medical and surgical subgroups. Cochlear implant (CI) recipients served as radiographic controls. Eighty-four MD patients (46 surgical, 38 medical) and 37 CI controls were assessed. MRI measurements assessed for empty/partial sella (ES/PS), dilated/tortuous optic nerve sheath (ONS), and posterior globe flattening (PGF).

Results

Mean age was 53.8 ± 1.3 years and median body mass index (BMI) was 28.2 kg/m2. Of the patients, 64% were female and 92% were white. MRI findings in the MD cohort were as follows: ES/PS, 46.4%; ONS change, 42.8%; and PGF, 8.3%. The prevalence of ONS change was higher in MD patients than in controls (42.8% vs 13.5%, P = .003). The surgical MD group had higher prevalence of ONS change (52%) compared with the medical group (31.5%, P = .05) and controls (13.5%, P = .0004). The surgical group had a higher prevalence of ≥2 simultaneous MRI findings compared with medical MD patients (39% vs 10%, P = .01) and controls (14%, P = .01).

Conclusion

MD patients demonstrate a high prevalence of radiographic signs of ICH. MD patients who required surgery had a greater prevalence of radiographic signs of ICH compared with non-MD patients and medically managed MD patients.

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension: Contemporary review and implications for the otolaryngologist

OBJECTIVES

1) Review controversies pertaining to the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of idiopathic intracranial hypertension. 2) Discuss the evolving role of otolaryngologists in managing this disease and related disorders.

DATA SOURCES

Primary literature review, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website, International Classification of Headache Disorders, Second Edition.

METHODS

A comprehensive review of the primary literature was performed from 1990 to 2016 utilizing keywords idiopathic intracranial hypertension, pseudotumor cerebri, benign intracranial hypertension, spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid leak, and encephalocele. Articles were included at the discretion of the authors based on novel and/or historical contributions to the literature.

RESULTS

The incidence of idiopathic intracranial hypertension is increasing along with the obesity epidemic. Undiagnosed patients may present to otolaryngologists with pulsatile tinnitus, dizziness, sleep apnea, and spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid leaks. Although diagnosis is predicated upon imaging findings and lumbar puncture, radiographic signs including empty sella, optic nerve dilation, and globe flattening may suggest the diagnosis. The most effective intervention is weight loss combined with acetazolamide. Surgery is reserved for severe or refractory symptoms and can be highly morbid. Otolaryngologists are increasingly responsible for managing a number of secondary disorders including cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea and otorrhea. Failure to manage intracranial hypertension may lead to adverse surgical outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

The knowledge base for idiopathic intracranial hypertension has greatly expanded over the past 25 years. This disease is associated with a number of conditions directly relevant to otolaryngologists. A keen understanding of this disorder and its management may optimize outcomes in a growing number of patients. Laryngoscope, 128:248-256, 2018.

Idiopathic temporal bone encephaloceles in the obese patient

Objectives

Our aims were to introduce temporal bone encephalocele (TBE) to the differential diagnosis of persistent middle ear effusion, cerebrospinal fluid otorrhea, or chronic otitis media in obese adults and to demonstrate the basic pathophysiologic principles of morbid obesity as it may lead to the cascade of increased intra-abdominal pressure, increased central venous pressure, benign increased intracranial pressure, and TBE.

Methods

A retrospective review of the medical records was performed to determine the location, nature, and etiology of the encephaloceles identified at our institution from 1989 to 2005. Body mass index was calculated from the patient height and weight data.

Results

Eight patients with spontaneous, idiopathic TBE were identified. Body mass index values ranged from 32.0 to 67.5 kg/m2 with a mean of 48.6 kg/m2. All patients identified with a spontaneous, idiopathic TBE were obese.

Conclusion

TBE is associated with morbid obesity in our population and should be considered in the differential diagnosis when evaluating mastoid and middle ear disease in the morbidly obese. © 2007 American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Foundation. All rights reserved.

Inner Ear Conductive Hearing Loss and Unilateral Pulsatile Tinnitus Associated with a Dural Arteriovenous Fistula: Case Based Review and Analysis of Relationship between Intracranial Vascular Abnormalities and Inner Ear Fluids

While pulsatile tinnitus (PT) and dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF) are not rarely associated, the finding of a conductive hearing loss (CHL) in this clinical picture is unusual. Starting from a case of CHL and PT, diagnosed to be due to a DAVF, we analyzed relationship between intracranial vascular abnormalities and inner ear fluids. DAVF was treated with endovascular embolization. Following this, there was a dramatic recovery of PT and of CHL, confirming their cause-effect link with DAVF. We critically evaluated the papers reporting this association. This is the first case of CHL associated with PT and DAVF. We describe the most significant experiences and theories reported in literature, with a personal analysis about the possible relationship between vascular intracranial system and labyrinthine fluids. In conclusion, we believe that this association may be a challenge for otolaryngologists. So we suggest to consider the possibility of a DAVF or other AVMs when PT is associated with CHL, without alterations of tympanic membrane and middle ear tests.

Pediatric Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension Presenting With Sensorineural Hearing Loss

OBJECTIVE

To present the rare case of a young boy with idiopathic intracranial hypertension presenting with bilateral sensorineural hearing loss developing over several months. This was accompanied by headaches, otalgia, tinnitus, and vertigo. Furthermore, we aim to provide a concise review on this matter, as this report represents the second case in literature of pediatric idiopathic intracranial hypertension presenting with hearing loss.

METHODS

Workup of a 9-year-old boy with bilateral sensorineural hearing loss, including (among others) physical examination, audiometry, diagnostic imaging, and lumbar puncture.

RESULTS

Physical examination including fundoscopy as well as imaging showed no abnormalities. At presentation, pure tone audiometry revealed bone conduction thresholds of about 30 dB HL in both ears. Two months later, this declined to about 35 dB HL in both ears. Lumbar puncture revealed an increased intracranial pressure. The boy was thus diagnosed with idiopathic intracranial hypertension. After the lumbar puncture, the otological complaints gradually resolved, and the hearing normalized (bone conduction thresholds of 0-5 dB HL).

CONCLUSION

Although rare, sensorineural hearing loss in the pediatric population together with otalgia, tinnitus, and vertigo can be due to idiopathic intracranial hypertension and as such can be reversible.

Degree of sigmoid sinus compression and the symptom relief using magnetic resonance angiography in venous pulsating tinnitus

OBJECTIVES

To show that mechanical compression of sigmoid sinus is effective for treatment of pulsatile tinnitus caused by sigmoid sinus enlargement, and to evaluate the relationship between the compression degree of sigmoid sinus and the tinnitus symptom relief using magnetic resonance angiography.

METHODS

Medical records of twenty-four patients who were diagnosed with venous tinnitus caused by sigmoid sinus enlargement and underwent mechanical compression of sigmoid sinus were reviewed between April 2009 and May 2013. All these patients received computed tomography and magnetic resonance venography study before undergoing surgery and were followed for at least 4 months.

RESULTS

Twenty-three patients felt relief from tinnitus three months after the surgery, and the cross-sectional area of the sigmoid sinus on the tinnitus side was compressed approximately by half (46%-69%) after the surgery. There were 4 patients whose tinnitus suddenly disappeared while lying on the operating table before operation, which may be a result of the patient's emotional tension or postural changes from standing. One of the four patients felt no relief from tinnitus after the surgery, with the cross-sectional area of the sigmoid sinus only compressed by 30%. And two patients of them had a recurrence of tinnitus about 6 months after the surgery. Seven patients had sigmoid sinus diverticula, and tinnitus would not disappear merely by eliminating the diverticulum until by compressing the sigmoid sinus to certain degree. There were 3 minor complications, including aural fullness, head fullness and hyperacusis. The preoperative low frequency conductive and sensorineural hearing loss of 7 subjects subsided.

CONCLUSION

Mechanical compression of sigmoid sinus is an effective treatment for pulsatile tinnitus caused by sigmoid sinus enlargement, even if it might be accompanied by sigmoid sinus diverticulum. A compression degree of sigmoid sinus about 54% is adequate for the relief of tinnitus symptom. Cases in which patients' tinnitus suddenly disappeared before the surgery might be excluded to improve the efficacy of surgery.

The idiopathic intracranial hypertension treatment trial: clinical profile at baseline

IMPORTANCE

To our knowledge, there are no large prospective cohorts of untreated patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) to characterize the disease.

OBJECTIVE

To report the baseline clinical and laboratory features of patients enrolled in the Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension Treatment Trial.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

We collected data at baseline from questionnaires, examinations, automated perimetry, and fundus photography grading. Patients (n = 165) were enrolled from March 17, 2010, to November 27, 2012, at 38 academic and private practice sites in North America. All participants met the modified Dandy criteria for IIH and had a perimetric mean deviation between -2 dB and -7 dB. All but 4 participants were women.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Baseline and laboratory characteristics.

RESULTS

The mean (SD) age of our patients was 29.0 (7.4) years and 4 (2.4%) were men. The average (SD) body mass index (calculated as weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared) was 39.9 (8.3). Headache was the most common symptom (84%). Transient visual obscurations occurred in 68% of patients, back pain in 53%, and pulse synchronous tinnitus in 52%. Only 32% reported visual loss. The average (SD) perimetric mean deviation in the worst eye was -3.5 (1.1) dB, (range, -2.0 to -6.4 dB) and in the best eye was -2.3 (1.1) dB (range, -5.2 to 0.8 dB). A partial arcuate visual field defect with an enlarged blind spot was the most common perimetric finding. Visual acuity was 85 letters or better (20/20) in 71% of the worst eyes and 77% of the best eyes. Quality of life measures, including the National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire-25 and the Short Form-36 physical and mental health summary scales, were lower compared with population norms.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

The Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension Treatment Trial represents the largest prospectively analyzed cohort of untreated patients with IIH. Our data show that IIH is almost exclusively a disease of obese young women. Patients with IIH with mild visual loss have typical symptoms, may have mild acuity loss, and have visual field defects, with predominantly arcuate loss and enlarged blind spots that require formal perimetry for detection.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT01003639.

Elevated intracranial pressure in patients with spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid otorrhea

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

To determine the prevalence of elevated intracranial hypertension in patients with spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid otorrhea (SCSFO).

STUDY DESIGN

Case series with chart review at a tertiary care academic medical center following institutional review board approval.

METHODS

A retrospective review was performed of patients undergoing operative repair of SCSFO between January 2007 and May 2012.

RESULTS

Thirty-eight patients underwent operative repair of SCSFO. Of these, 22 underwent postoperative lumbar puncture with measurement of opening pressure. The opening pressure was elevated (> 20 cm/H2 0) in eight patients (36.4%). Preoperative magnetic resonance imaging was available for review by a neuroradiologist in 27 patients. Radiographic evidence of elevated intracranial pressure (ICP) was present in 48.1% of patients.

CONCLUSION

Elevated ICP is common in patients with SCSFO. However, as only a minority of patients have elevated ICP, it is not the sole factor in the development of SCSFO.

Clinical spectrum of the pseudotumor cerebri in children: etiological, clinical features, treatment and prognosis

OBJECTIVE

Pseudotumor cerebri (PTC) is a clinical condition characterized by signs and symptoms of increased intracranial pressure, such as headache and papilledema. Our aim was to investigate the etiological and clinical features of pseudotumor cerebri (PTC) in children.

MATERIALS AND METHOD

We performed a comprehensive analysis of epidemiology, diagnostic work-up, therapy, and clinical follow-up in 42 consecutive patients.

RESULTS

Totally 42 patients diagnosed with PTC [27 (64.3%) females and 15 (35.7%) males] were included in the study. The average age of the symptoms onset was 10.79±3.43 years (range from 12 months to 17 years). Obesity was found in eleven (26.2%) of them. Two of the patients had familial mediterranean fever, two of them had posttraumatic PTC. The following diseases were one patient, respectively; mycophenolate mofetil-induced PTC, hypervitaminosis A induced PTC, corticosteroid induced withdrawal due to nephritic syndrome, use of oral contraceptives, Guillain-Barre syndrome, urinary tract infection, varicella-zoster virus infection and dural venous sinus thrombosis associated with otitis media. The most common symptom was headache, recorded in 76.2% of the patients. All patients were treated medically. Three patients in our group also required a ventriculoperitoneal shunt.

CONCLUSION

Pseudotumor cerebri is an avoidable cause of visual loss, both in adults and children. Pre-pubertal obese girls are more common. Medical therapy appeared to be successful in treating pediatric PTC in most patients. Nevertheless, despite adequate treatment, children can rarely experience loss of visual field and acuity; thus, prompt diagnosis and management are important.

Pulsatile tinnitus: contemporary assessment and management

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Pulsatile tinnitus is an uncommon otologic symptom, which often presents a diagnostic and management dilemma to the otolaryngologist. The majority of patients with pulsatile tinnitus have a treatable cause. Failure to establish correct diagnosis may have disastrous consequences, because a potentially life-threatening, underlying disorder may be present. The purpose of this review is to familiarize the otolaryngologist with the most common causes, evaluation, and management of pulsatile tinnitus.

RECENT FINDINGS

The pathophysiology, classification, various causes, evaluation, and management of the most common causes of pulsatile tinnitus are presented in this review.

SUMMARY

Pulsatile tinnitus deserves a thorough evaluation and, in the majority of cases, there is a treatable underlying cause. The possibility of a life-threatening cause needs to be ruled out in every patient with pulsatile tinnitus. The otolaryngologist should be familiar with the evaluation and management of this symptom.

Benign intracranial hypertension: a diagnostic dilemma

Benign intracranial hypertension (BIH) (also known as pseudotumor cerebri and empty sella syndrome) remains a diagnostic challenge to most physicians. The modified Dandy criteria consist of, the classic findings of headache, pulsatile tinnitus, papilledema, and elevated cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pressure, however, these are rarely collectively present in any one patient. Furthermore, these findings can wax and wane over time. Due to the nature of this disease, both signs and symptoms may be intermittent, making definitive diagnosis difficult. Newer imaging studies, particularly the magnetic resonance venogram (MRV) along with a constellation of correlative findings and associated diseases have given new impetus in the diagnosis, treatment, and pathophysiology of this disease. This has led the authors to offer modifications to the classic Dandy criteria. This report presents three representative cases of BIH highlighting many of the newer advances in both diagnosis and treatment of this perplexing disorder.

Endovascular treatment of pulsatile tinnitus caused by dural sinus stenosis

A patient presenting with progressive pulsatile tinnitus was found to have an ipsilateral dural sinus stenosis. This problem was successfully treated by an endovascular approach with angioplasty and subsequent sinus stenting. The diagnostic evaluation, therapeutic method, and follow-up concerning this problem and its treatment are discussed.

Endolymphatic hydrops: pathophysiology and experimental models

It is well established that endolymphatic hydrops plays a role in Ménière disease, even though the precise role is not fully understood and the presence of hydrops in the ear does not always result in symptoms of the disease. It nevertheless follows that a scientific understanding of how hydrops arises, how it affects the function of the ear, and how it can be manipulated or reversed could contribute to the development of effective treatments for the disease. Measurements in animal models in which endolymphatic hydrops has been induced have given numerous insights into the relationships between hydrops and other pathologic and electrophysiological changes, and how these changes influence the function of the ear. The prominent role of the endolymphatic sac in endolymph volume regulation, and the cascade of histopathological and electrophysiological changes that are associated with chronic endolymphatic hydrops, have now been established. An increasing number of models are now available that allow specific aspects of the interrelationships to be studied. The yclical nature of Ménière symptoms gives hope that treatments can be developed to maintain the ear in permanent state of remission, possibly by controlling endolymphatic hydrops, thereby avoiding the rogressive damage and secondary pathologic changes that may also contribute to the patient's symptoms.

AGGRESSIVE INTRACRANIAL DURAL ARTERIOVENOUS FISTULA PRESENTING WITH CEREBROSPINAL FLUID RHINORRHEA

OBJECTIVE

This is the first report of an aggressive dural arteriovenous fistula presenting with rhinorrhea. It demonstrates the importance of recognizing increased intracranial pressure, and its underlying cause, as the predisposing factor to a spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid leak because this carries implications for management.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION

Ten years after minor trauma and directly after an intercontinental flight, a 43-year-old woman presented with rhinorrhea. Right-sided pulsatile tinnitus had been present for the past 9 years. Imaging demonstrated an intracranial dural arteriovenous fistula of the right transverse sinus with cortical venous reflux. Magnetic resonance imaging findings indicated long-standing increased intracranial pressure.

INTERVENTION

The fistula was treated by endovascular means, using both transvenous and transarterial approaches, which led to immediate relief of the tinnitus and resolution of the rhinorrhea within 4 days.

CONCLUSION

A dural arteriovenous fistula should be included in the differential diagnosis of underlying causes of increased intracranial pressure when examining a patient with a cerebrospinal fluid leak. Treatment of the fistula should precede attempts to treat the rhinorrhea, especially if the fistula has cortical venous reflux.

Endovascular stenting of the transverse sinus in a patient presenting with benign intracranial hypertension

The authors present a 37-year-old lady with symptoms and signs suggestive of benign intracranial hypertension (BIH). Routine CT and MRI scans were normal. Further investigations were performed with magnetic resonance venography (MRV) and cerebral venography. These revealed obstruction of the right transverse sinus with high pressure (40 mmHg) proximal to the obstruction and low pressure (15 mmHg) distally. She was treated by transvenous stent deployment with resolution of her symptoms and the bilateral papilloedema. Evaluation of the cerebral venous system with MRV and or with formal cerebral venography should be included in routine investigations of patients with suspected BIH.

Communication routes between intracranial spaces and inner ear: function, pathophysiologic importance and relations with inner ear diseases

OBJECTIVE

There exist 3 communication routes between the intracranial space and the inner ear, the vestibular aqueduct, the cochlear aqueduct, and the internal auditory canal. They possess a key role in inner ear pressure regulation and fluid homeostasis and are related to inner ear diseases.

REVIEW METHODS

Relevant literature was reviewed, and the current knowledge of the anatomy, physiologic importance, and relations to inner ear diseases were described. Pathologic communication routes such as semicircular canal dehiscence syndrome were highlighted as well.

CONCLUSION

Abnormalities in all 3 communication routes may predispose or be the cause of distinct inner ear pathologic condition and involved in other cochlear and vestibular syndromes, in which their role is not completely clear. The increasing knowledge of the underlying mechanisms encourages promising approaches for possible intervention in the future.