Radiologic features of vascular pulsatile tinnitus - suggestion of optimal diagnostic image workup modalities

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the optimal diagnostic workup modalities for vascular pulsatile tinnitus through analysis of clinical and radiologic findings.

Materials and methods: A total of 49 patients diagnosed with vascular pulsatile tinnitus along with their medical records and radiologic findings were thoroughly reviewed.

Results: Of these patients, 84% had venous lesions. The jugular bulb variants (67%) were the most common venous lesions followed by sigmoid sinus variants (12%). About 88% (43/49) of these lesions were detected with computed tomography of the temporal bone (TBCT) alone and the lesions were either venous or intratemporal artery in origin. Simple manual neck compression test was 93% sensitive in predicting venous lesions. A high suspicion for venous lesion coupled with manual neck compression test and selection of the optimal imaging technique are useful for the proper evaluation of vascular pulsatile tinnitus at the initial visit.

Conclusion: Our stepwise strategy may increase the cost-effectiveness of the chosen imaging workup by reducing redundancy of multiple and simultaneous radiologic tests in patients with vascular pulsatile tinnitus.

Keywords: Tinnitus; diagnosis; pulsatile; vascular.