Perilymph fistula: rare but real.

Although perilymph fistula is a rare diagnosis, it is important that family physicians be aware of the signs and symptoms that suggest its presence. When a patient develops sudden loss of hearing and/or vestibular dysfunction after experiencing trauma to the head or ears, after barotrauma, or after performing a vigorous Valsalva manoeuvre, he should be referred promptly to an otolaryngologist for assessment and proper management of the condition.