Clinical Course of Pediatric Congenital Inner Ear Malformations

Abstract

Because inner ear malformation was diagnosed after 24 months of age in a significant percentage of patients, we recommend increased parental education and vigilance by primary care practitioners. Universal newborn screening may be the key to earlier detection of these infants. For children with idiopathic sensorineural hearing loss, we recommend a temporal bone CT scan. Patients with vestibular aqueduct enlargement must be counseled about the risk of progressive sensorineural hearing loss, meningitis, and the need to avoid contact sports. Patients with common cavity abnormalities should be considered for exploratory tympanotomy and also educated about the risk for meningitis.