Investigation of the Relationship Between Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension and Superior Semicircular Canal Dehiscence

Abstract

Purpose: The etiology of superior semicircular canal dehiscence (SSCD) is not yet clear; however, several theories implicate cumulative erosive changes. Here, using thin-section temporal bone CT images, we aimed to investigate the relationship between the bone roof thickness overlying the SSC and idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) which may cause repetitive microtrauma. Materıals and methods: Between January 2017-December 2019, temporal bone CT scans from 18 patients with a diagnosis of IIH, and 21 age- and sex-matched controls were analyzed retrospectively. Multiplanar reformatted images (Pöschl and Stenver) were reconstructed from the scans and the roof thickness of the SSC bone was measured and SSCD was classified in 4 grades. Results: A total of 78 thin-section temporal bone CT scans were evaluated. Although grade-II dehiscence was most frequent in both groups, grade-IV was only observed in both temporal bones of one patient in the IIH group. Grade-III and grade-IV dehiscence rates were significantly higher in the IIH group (p=0.006). There was a significant difference between IIH and control groups in terms of SSC bone roof thickness (p=0.03). Conclusıon: Increased CSF pressure in patients with IIH may cause chronic, progressive, and irreversible damage to the bone that covers the superior semicircular canal, and may play a role as a predisposing factor for SSCD.