A case of Michel aplasia of the labyrinth and the VIIIth nerve-a 20 years follow-up on balance and gross motor function.

BACKGROUND

The long-term balance and motor development of infants and children with bilateral aplasia of the labyrinth, known as Michel aplasia is currently unknown.

OBJECTIVE

To follow up, over a period of twenty years from two months after birth to age twenty, the balance and motor development of a patient with bilateral aplasia of the labyrinth and the VIIIth nerve, Michel aplasia, and offer insight to his remarkable compensation.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

Our patient is a twenty-year-old male who was followed up from the age of two months. CT and MRI scans were performed for imaging of the temporal bones and brain. The balance function and motor development were evaluated.

RESULTS

His CT of temporal bone demonstrated bilateral aplasia of the labyrinth and the VIIIth nerve. His primitive and postural reflexes appeared later than usual. In early childhood, the milestones of his gross motor function were delayed. In adulthood, he has become a professional athlete with no problems observed in balance or motor functions.

CONCLUSIONS AND SIGNIFICANCE: Even with bilateral aplasia of the labyrinth and the VIIIth nerve, as long as no other problems are present, the balance and gross motor functions can be acquired with delay through central compensation.