An unusual presentation of epilepsy.

OBJECTIVE

To report a case of fluctuating hearing due to auditory aura, as an unusual presentation of temporal lobe epilepsy.

METHODS

Case report and review of English language literature on temporal lobe epilepsy and auditory aura.

RESULTS

A 31-year-old man presented with intermittent symptoms of bilateral fullness in the ears associated with deafness. He was subsequently diagnosed with temporal lobe epilepsy. Further enquiry revealed a family history of epilepsy.

CONCLUSION

Auditory aura as a presentation of temporal lobe epilepsy is rarely encountered in otolaryngological practice. This case highlights the importance of obtaining detailed information on epilepsy, including any family history of epilepsy, as a routine part of history-taking in patients presenting with fluctuating hearing loss.