Congenital Nasal Encephalocele Presenting With Pneumococcal Meningitis and Subsequent Bilateral Sensorineural Hearing Loss: A Case Report of a Pediatric Patient.

Congenital nasal encephaloceles are rare anterior skull base defects that may predispose patients to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage and subsequent meningitis. While sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) is a known complication of pediatric meningitis, progression from an unrecognized nasal encephalocele to meningitis and bilateral profound hearing loss is infrequently reported. We describe a seven-month-old male who presented with pneumococcal meningitis and status epilepticus requiring intensive care management. Following recovery, he developed severe-to-profound bilateral SNHL. Further evaluation revealed labyrinthitis ossificans and a previously unrecognized nasal encephalocele. The patient underwent bilateral cochlear implantation followed by successful endoscopic repair of the skull base defect. Postoperatively, he demonstrated hearing thresholds within normal ranges and no evidence of recurrence. This case highlights the importance of early recognition of congenital skull base defects in infants presenting with meningitis. It underscores the role of timely imaging and multidisciplinary management in preventing irreversible complications.