Contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging of the temporal bone.

The recent advances in MR imaging of the temporal bone brought about by the availability of intravenous contrast agents sensitive to the disruption of the blood-brain barrier have further expanded the role of MR imaging in the evaluation of this region. The main applications of contrast-enhanced MR imaging in the temporal bone are the evaluation of inflammatory and neoplastic processes of the labyrinth (in the general context of patients with sensorineural hearing loss or vertigo) peripheral seventh nerve palsies, and miscellaneous inflammatory and neoplastic conditions of the temporal bone itself.