Superficial siderosis of the central nervous system: An underdiagnosed cause of sensorineural hearing loss and ataxia

E. A. Pribitkin, L. Rondinella, S. I. Rosenberg, D. M. Yousem

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

26 Scopus citations

Abstract

Superficial siderosis of the central nervous system (CNS) is a rare but ultimately fatal disorder characterized by progressive hearing loss, ataxia, and dementia. Symptoms are caused by the deposition of hemosiderin in the CNS as a result of recurrent or persistent extravasation of blood into the cerebrospinal fluid. Sites most commonly involved include the cerebellum, brain stem, and eighth cranial nerve. In the past, diagnosis was most often made at autopsy, and this may account for the lack of reported cases in the otolaryngologic literature and the presumed rarity of the disorder. Now, diagnosis is confirmed by characteristic magnetic resonance imaging findings and treatment is targeted toward the source of bleeding. The diagnosis of superficial CNS siderosis should be entertained in all patients presenting with sensorineural hearing loss and ataxia.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)415-418
Number of pages4
JournalAmerican Journal of Otology
Volume15
Issue number3
StatePublished - 1994
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Otorhinolaryngology

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