Magnetic Resonance Imaging in the Search for Retrocochlear Pathology

Abstract

OBJECTIVES:

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the incidence of retrocochlear pathologic conditions that may be seen with full, contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging of the brain, relative to more limited studies of the internal auditory canals (IACs) in patients with unilateral hearing loss or tinnitus with or without dizziness.

METHODS:

A retrospective study was performed on all patients who had a magnetic resonance imaging of the brain and otologic symptoms over a 7-year period.

RESULTS:

Abnormalities were found in 11 of 128 patients with only auditory symptoms and in 63 of 282 patients with auditory symptoms and/or dizziness (P = 0.005). Treatable lesions may not have been identified with a limited IAC study in 3 of 128 patients with only unilateral auditory symptoms, and 21 of 282 patients with dizziness (P = 0.045).

CONCLUSIONS:

Limited MRI of the IACs may serve as an adequate screening test for retrocochlear pathologic conditions in patients with unilateral auditory symptoms and no dizziness.