Management of Meningitis Due to Cystic Cochleovestibular Malformation: a Stitch in Time.

Spontaneous CSF otorrhea alludes to those cases which have no known etiology like traumatic, iatrogenic, neoplastic or infectious. The presentation of the patient depends on the anatomical integrity of the eustachian tube as well as the tympanic membrane. Children with certain congenital inner ear malformations, including incomplete partition deformity, show a higher incidence of spontaneous CSF leaks and the resultant meningitis. Cystic vestibulocochlear deformity accounts for approximately 20% of inner ear malformations. In this case report, we discuss a child who presented with first episode of meningitis and with the help of thorough clinical otorhinolaryngological examination and radiology, was diagnosed with a congenital ear anomaly. With this paper, we stress upon the importance of keeping an open mind regarding the differential diagnosis of any condition, and the value of timely intervention.