Labyrinthitis

Question 1

What?

Answer 1

Inflammatory condition affecting labyrinth in cochlea and vetibular system of inner ear

Question 2

Most common cause?

Answer 2

Viral infections

Question 3

What is bacterial labyrinthitis a complication of?

Answer 3

Otitis media or meningitis

Question 4

Risk factors?

Answer 4

Viral infections
Chronic suppurative otitis media
Acute otitis media
Cholesteatoma

Question 5

Clinical features?

Answer 5

Sensorineural hearing loss 
Vertigo  
Dizziness  
Balance problems 
One or both ears 
Nausea and vomiting

Question 6

Diagnostic factors?

Answer 6

Risk factors 
Vertigo 
Dizziness 
N&V 
Nystagmus  
Tinnitus  
Vertigo- related quick head or body movements 
Influenza- like symptoms

Question 7

Investigations?

Answer 7

Audiogram
Weber’s test
Rinne’s test

Question 8

What other investigations may be considered?

Answer 8

CT or MRI brain
Electronystagmography
Rotatory chair test

Question 9

Management?

Answer 9

Generally self- limiting
Antihistamines or motion- sickness tablets
Up to 3 days
If caused by bacterial infection -> antibiotics