Arachnoid cyst of the fallopian canal: a surgical challenge.

OBJECTIVE

Spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks from the fallopian canal are exceedingly rare, with only 6 reports appearing in the world literature. We report a seventh case that is unique in that it involves an arachnoid cyst of the fallopian canal and an associated facial nerve palsy.

STUDY

DESIGN

Case report.

SETTING

International tertiary care referral center.

CONCLUSION

CSF otorhinorrhea associated with a facial nerve palsy may be indicative of an arachnoid cyst of the fallopian canal. These fistula are extremely rare. Surgical management involves sealing the fistula while preserving facial nerve function and is extremely challenging.