2023 Volume 69 Issue 2 Pages 104-109
Although temporal bone fractures are known to be able to cause perilymphatic fistulas (PLFs), the diagnosis of PLFs is difficult. Therefore, PLFs due to temporal bone fractures may be missed. We herein report a case of bilateral PLFs due to bilateral temporal fractures. Case: After receiving intensive treatment for acute subdural hematoma caused by a traffic accident, an 18-year-old girl showed bilateral facial nerve palsy. Her neurosurgeon consulted us for a clinical examination. The patient was able to walk and did not complain of vertigo. Therefore, vestibular disorder was not suspected. In addition to bilateral facial paralysis and bilateral hearing loss, the patient had difficulty standing up while blindfolded. Vestibular function tests revealed spontaneous nystagmus and positional nystagmus. PLF was suspected, so bilateral exploratory tympanotomy was performed. Lymphatic leakage from the bilateral inner ear windows was observed, and bilateral inner ear window closure was performed. The day after surgery, she was able to walk with a blindfold. PLF may be suspected in cases of temporal bone fractures, even without complaints of vertigo. Therefore, a careful examination by an otorhinolaryngologist should be requested.
