Third window lesions of the inner ear: A pictorial review

Abstract

Purpose: Radiographic review of pathologies that associate with third window syndrome.

Methods: Case series and literature review.

Results: Eight unique third window conditions are described and illustrated, including superior, lateral, and posterior semicircular canal dehiscence; carotid-cochlear, facial-cochlear, and internal auditory canal-cochlear dehiscence, labyrinthine erosion from endolymphatic sac tumor, and enlarged vestibular aqueduct.

Conclusion: The present study highlights the characteristic imaging features and symptoms to differentiate third window pathologies for expedient diagnosis and management planning.

Keywords: EVA; Superior semicircular canal dehiscence; Third window.