Board Review 1 – Case 15

Neuroradiology board review. This lecture is geared towards the ABR core exam for residents, but it would be useful for review for the ABR certifying exam or certificate of added qualification (CAQ) exam for neuroradiology.

More description and the answer (spoiler!) are seen below the video.

This case starts with a CT showing bilateral temporal bone fractures after a major trauma. There are a number of potential complications of temporal bone fractures, but on the left the ossicles are no longer in alignment.

The diagnosis is: ossicular dissociation from trauma

Fractures of the temporal bone can cause a number of complications, including meningitis, conductive hearing loss, and facial nerve injury. This shows dislocation of the malleus and incus on the left. Fractures should be classified by whether they involve the otic capsule or spare the otic capsule.