Labyrinthine ossification: etiologies and CT findings

• Published in: Radiology Vol. 157; no. 2; p. 395
• Main Authors: Swartz, J D, Mandell, D M, Faerber, E N, Popky, G L, Ardito, J M, Steinberg, S B, Rojer, C L
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 01.11.1985
• Subjects: Adult; Aged; Child; Female; Hearing Loss - etiology; Humans; Labyrinth Diseases - diagnostic imaging; Labyrinthitis - complications; Labyrinthitis - diagnostic imaging; Male; Ossification, Heterotopic - diagnostic imaging; Ossification, Heterotopic - etiology; Postoperative Complications - diagnostic imaging; Postoperative Complications - etiology; Tomography, X-Ray Computed; Vertigo - etiology
• ISSN: 0033-8419
• DOI: 10.1148/radiology.157.2.3931172

Ossification of the membranous labyrinth (labyrinthitis ossificans) develops as the final result of many inflammatory processes, for example, meningitis, blood-borne septic emboli, middle ear infection, and cholesteatoma. Labyrinthine ossification may also occur as a result of previous labyrinthectomy or secondary to trauma. Seven cases of labyrinthine ossification accompanied by severe vertigo and total hearing loss in the affected ear are discussed. The computed tomographic appearance of varying degrees of ossification, the clinical and surgical circumstances from which this disorder may develop, and the various approaches to labyrinthectomy are described.