CT diagnosis of middle ear cholesteatoma

Objective To explore the diagnostic effectiveness of HRCT in middle ear cholesteatoma. Methods To compare the findings on CT scan and during operation in 238 cases with middle ear cholesteatoma proved by mastoidotympanectomy and post-operation pathological examination. Results (1) Sensitivity of CT diagnosis is the highest for attic cholesteatoma(81.25%) and the lowest for mastoid cholesteatoma (50%); (2) The radiological features on the CT scan were: ① a tissue mass (cholesteatoma) in the tympanic and mastoid cavity; ② a low density ring around the mass; ③ sclerosing of the bony borders of the tympanic sinus and mastoid cavity; ④ enlargment of the tympanic and mastoid cavity;⑤ destruction of the auditoy ossicle chain. Conclusions CT scan is helpful in the assessment of and planning the management for the middle ear cholesteatoma before surgery.