enlarged vestibular aqueduct

Enlarged Vestibular Aqueduct (EVA) Description

The Enlarged Vestibular Aqueduct (EVA) is a congenital inner ear anomaly characterized by an abnormal enlargement of the narrow tube called the vestibular aqueduct. This tube, also known as the endolymphatic duct and sac, runs from the inner ear to deep inside the skull.

Key Features:

• Abnormal Enlargement: The vestibular aqueduct is larger than normal, typically exceeding 1 mm in size.
• Congenital Condition: EVA is a birth defect that occurs before birth during fetal development.
• Sensorineural Deafness: Individuals with EVA often experience sensorineural deafness, which affects both ears and can lead to hearing loss.

Other Relevant Information:

• The vestibular aqueduct plays a crucial role in regulating the fluid balance within the inner ear.
• An enlarged vestibular aqueduct can cause the endolymphatic sac and duct to become overfilled, leading to further complications.
• EVA is often associated with sensorineural or mixed hearing loss, which may not be apparent at birth but typically manifests later in life.

References:

• [1] Vestibular aqueducts are narrow, bony canals that travel from the inner ear to deep inside the skull (see figure). The aqueducts begin inside ...
• [2] A vestibular aqueduct that is larger than 1 mm is considered enlarged. The enlarged vestibular aqueduct (EVA) may be a sign of corresponding enlargement of the ...
• [3] If your child has Enlarged vestibular aqueducts (EVA) they will have sensorineural deafness which usually affects both ears - find out more about EVA.
• [7] The vestibular aqueduct is a narrow tube filled with fluid in the inner ear. When that tube is wider than usual, it is called an enlarged vestibular aqueduct ( ...
• [9] by A Join — When the aqueduct is enlarged, the endolymphatic sac and duct tend to enlarge and fill the space. The endolymphatic duct and sac are thought to help regulate ...

Enlarged Vestibular Aqueduct (EVA) Signs and Symptoms

The Enlarged Vestibular Aqueduct (EVA) is a condition characterized by an abnormal widening of the vestibular aqueduct, which can lead to sensorineural hearing loss. The symptoms associated with EVA can vary from person to person, but here are some common signs and symptoms:

• **Sensor

Diagnostic Tests for Enlarged Vestibular Aqueduct (EVA)

Enlarged Vestibular Aqueduct (EVA) is a condition where the vestibular aqueduct, a small canal in the inner ear, is larger than normal. Diagnosing EVA typically involves imaging tests to visualize the inner ear structure.

• Temporal Bone CT: This is often considered the initial study of choice for diagnosing EVA, as it can provide detailed images of the bony parts of the inner ear (4). A temporal bone CT scan can help identify an enlarged vestibular aqueduct.
• MRI Scan: While MRI scans are not typically used as the primary diagnostic tool for EVA, they may be useful in some cases to visualize the soft tissues surrounding the inner ear (5).
• Hearing and Vestibular Function Tests: These tests assess the function of the inner ear and can help identify any hearing or balance problems associated with EVA (1).

It's essential to note that a medical professional, typically an otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat doctor), will interpret the results of these imaging tests to confirm a diagnosis of EVA.

References:

• [1] - A child with suspected EVA may undergo hearing and vestibular function tests as part of their diagnostic evaluation.
• [4] - CT should be the initial study of choice to diagnose an LVA (Large Vestibular Aqueduct) based on the best current available evidence.
• [5] - An MRI scan may be used in some cases to visualize the soft tissues surrounding the inner ear.

Current Treatment Options for Enlarged Vestibular Aqueduct (EVA)

Enlarged Vestibular Aqueduct (EVA) is a congenital inner ear anomaly that can lead to sensorineural hearing loss and/or

Understanding Differential Diagnosis

Differential diagnosis refers to the process of identifying and ruling out other possible causes of a condition, in this case, an enlarged vestibular aqueduct (EVA). This is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Possible Causes of EVA

According to medical research [1], differential diagnosis of sensorineural hearing loss associated with EVA should be made with congenital infectious diseases such as cytomegalovirus, syphilis, and intrauterine infections. Additionally, HIV infection is another possible cause that needs to be investigated [2].

Other Conditions to Consider

Differential diagnosis should also consider other conditions that may present similarly to EVA, such as:

• Congenital anomalies of the inner ear
• Infections or inflammation affecting the inner ear
• Trauma or injury to the head or ear

Importance of Accurate Diagnosis

Accurate differential diagnosis is essential for providing appropriate treatment and management strategies for patients with EVA. Misdiagnosis can lead to delayed or inadequate treatment, which may worsen the condition.

References:

[1] Pinto JA (2005) - In children, differential diagnosis of sensorineural loss should be made with congenital infectious diseases (cytomegalovirus, syphilis, intrauterine infections... [Search Result 7]

[2] Pinto JA (2005) - Differential diagnosis should also be made with HIV infection because it is a neurotrophic virus. Moreover, other causes should be investigated, such as... [Search Result 8]