Nasopharyngeal Approach to a Cholesterol Granuloma of the Petrous Apex

Ear Nose Throat J. 2023 Dec;102(12):NP596-NP598. doi: 10.1177/01455613211028074. Epub 2021 Jul 8.

Abstract

Cholesterol granulomas are rare cystic inflammatory lesions characterized by the formation of cholesterol crystals. They are the most prevalent lesions of the petrous apex and when symptomatic, hearing loss, vertigo, tinnitus, headache, and facial pathology can be present. Surgical management is recommended in symptomatic patients. There are different surgical approaches to cholesterol granulomas. The aim of this article is to present and describe an endoscopic endonasal nasopharyngeal approach to a cholesterol granuloma and explain the advantages and disadvantages.

Keywords: cholesterol granuloma; endonasal; nasopharynx; petrous apex.

MeSH terms

  • Cholesterol
  • Endoscopy
  • Granuloma / surgery
  • Granuloma, Foreign-Body* / diagnosis
  • Granuloma, Foreign-Body* / surgery
  • Hearing Loss*
  • Humans
  • Petrous Bone / surgery

Substances

  • Cholesterol