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Labyrinthitis
Alternate Names : Bacterial Labyrinthitis, Serous Labyrinthitis
Definition An ear disorder involving inflammation (irritation and swelling with presence of extra immune cells) of the canals of the inner ear (semicircular canals, labyrinth), which causes dizziness.
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Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
The cause of labyrinthitis is unknown, but because it commonly occurs following otitis media (ear infection) or an upper respiratory infection (URI), it is thought to be a consequence of viral or bacterial infection. It may also follow allergy, cholesteatoma, or the ingestion of certain drugs that are toxic to the inner ear.
The semicircular canals of the inner ear (labyrinth) become inflamed. This disrupts their function, including the regulation of balance. Risk factors include the following:
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Jump to another section
• Definition
• Labyrinthitis Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
• Labyrinthitis Symptoms & Signs
• Labyrinthitis Prevention
• Labyrinthitis Diagnosis & Tests
• Labyrinthitis Treatment
• Labyrinthitis Prognosis
• Labyrinthitis Complications
• Calling Your Health Care Provider
• Pictures & Images
Topics that might be of interest to you Diseases & Conditions
• Allergies
• Cholesteatoma
• Common Cold
• Ear Infection - Acute
• Otitis
Tests & Exams
• Audiology
• Caloric Stimulation
• Cranial CT Scan
• EEG
• Electronystagmography
• MRI
Other Topics
• Alcohol Use
• Dizziness
• Ear Noises or Buzzing
• Eye Movements - Uncontrollable
• Fainting
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Hearing Loss
• Nausea and Vomiting
• Respiratory
• Seizures
• Stress and Anxiety
Review Date : 9/5/2002
Reviewed By : Jason Newman, M.D., Department of Otolaryngology, Kaiser Permanente Medical Group, Washington, DC. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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