What happens to my child as a result of csf otorrhea?

Otorrhea: Leakage of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) can occur for a number of reasons. The primary concern would be for infection as any breach of the dura (coverings around the brain & spinal cord) can be a corridor for entrance of bacteria that could lead to meningitis. The most common cause is trauma resulting in a fracture of the base of the skull. Luckily these leaks rarely need surgery.

CSF Otorrhea: Depending on the cause, trauma vs spontaneous, the presence of an abnormal communication between sterile subarachnoid space with the flora of the sinonasal places your child at great risk for meningitis, which is potentially life threatening. Your child should be evaluated by an otolaryngologist immediately who may refer you to a neurosurgeon if a complex operation is indicated to seal the leak.