Perilymphatic Fistula

Perilymphatic fistula - tears or defects of the thin membranes between the middle and inner ear are the object of numerous reports in the literature. Results often remain controversial and a source of confusion for the readers. The purpose of this issue is to raise the many unresolved aspects of 'perilymphatic fistula', such as pathophysiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment. An extensive knowledge of the many unresolved questions should help the clinician to understand why the conclusions of reports he may have read are still controversial. As renowned experts cannot agree on this topic, each practitioner shares in the responsibility to improve our understanding of the problem. This issue is of interest not only to ENT specialists but also to audiologists, neurologists and general practitioners involved in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with dysequilibriums, vertigo and hearing loss.