BACKGROUND: beta-trace protein is an immunological marker for cerebrospinal fluid or inner ear fluids. We present two initial cases in which a beta-trace protein nephelometric assay provided immunological proof of perilymph in samples taken from the nasopharynx. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Two cases are presented of an acute vestibulocochlear disorder following stapedotomy. Fluid samples, taken from the nasopharynx, were investigated using beta-trace protein laser nephelometry. The samples were collected using Merocel tamponades, which were left in place over night. RESULTS: In both cases, the samples were positive for beta-trace protein. Tympanoscopy was performed and the oval window was closed. After tympanoscopy a partial recovery of the hearing impairment was observed. CONCLUSION: Using beta-trace protein, it seems to be possible to diagnose a perilymphatic fistula by noninvasive means.
BACKGROUND:beta-trace protein is an immunological marker for cerebrospinal fluid or inner ear fluids. We present two initial cases in which a beta-trace protein nephelometric assay provided immunological proof of perilymph in samples taken from the nasopharynx. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Two cases are presented of an acute vestibulocochlear disorder following stapedotomy. Fluid samples, taken from the nasopharynx, were investigated using beta-trace protein laser nephelometry. The samples were collected using Merocel tamponades, which were left in place over night. RESULTS: In both cases, the samples were positive for beta-trace protein. Tympanoscopy was performed and the oval window was closed. After tympanoscopy a partial recovery of the hearing impairment was observed. CONCLUSION: Using beta-trace protein, it seems to be possible to diagnose a perilymphatic fistula by noninvasive means.