Objective This study aimed to evaluate the association between cochlear nerve canal dimensions and semicircular canal abnormalities and to determine the distribution of bony labyrinth anomalies in patients with cochlear nerve canal stenosis. Method This was a retrospective study in which high-resolution computed tomography images of paediatric patients with severe-to-profound sensorineural hearing loss were reviewed. A cochlear nerve canal diameter of 1.5 mm or less in the axial plane was classified as stenotic. Semicircular canals and other bony labyrinth morphology and abnormality were evaluated. Results Cochlear nerve canal stenosis was detected in 65 out of 265 ears (24 per cent). Of the 65 ears, 17 ears had abnormal semicircular canals (26 per cent). Significant correlation was demonstrated between cochlear nerve canal stenosis and semicircular canal abnormalities (p < 0.01). Incomplete partition type II was the most common accompanying abnormality of cochlear nerve canal stenosis (15 out of 65, 23 per cent). Conclusion Cochlear nerve canal stenosis is statistically associated with semicircular canal abnormalities. Whenever a cochlear nerve canal stenosis is present in a patient with sensorineural hearing loss, the semicircular canal should be scrutinised for presence of abnormalities.

Glomus jugulare tumor arises within the jugular foramen with close proximity to lower cranial nerves and major vessels. The aim of treatment is complete resection of tumor with preservation of cranial nerves. However, surgery carries high morbidities and challenging especially in large tumors. A 47-year-old woman experienced hearing loss followed by pulsatile tinnitus for 2 years. Upon a thorough examination and investigations, she was later diagnosed with glomus jugulare. Tumour was excised through transmastoid approach and residual tumour was left at surgery to prevent potential morbidities. She received adjuvant stereotactic postoperative radiotherapy. Due to insidious onset, high index of suspicion for glomus tumor is needed to initiate early treatment and reduce morbidity. Thus, tinnitus should not be underestimated. Combination of partial resection with postoperative radiotherapy is the most suited and effective treatment in large tumors with preservation of the function of cranial nerves. Routine postoperative MRI is beneficial to monitor residual and recurrence.

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