Klippel-Feil syndrome and associated ear deformities

Am J Otol. 1983 Oct;5(2):113-9.

Abstract

The Klippel-Feil syndrome is characterized by a short, thick neck with restricted head mobility and a low occipital hairline. The head appears to rest directly on the thorax and the trapezius muscles flare out on either side of the neck, producing a pterygium-like effect. Cervical roentgenograms demonstrate fusion of some or even all of the vertebral bodies into bony blocks. Ear deformities occur in approximately one-third of the Klippel-Feil patient population. We report five cases of Klippel-Feil syndrome and describe their otologic and roentgenographic features. Although no single characteristic otologic or audiologic problem is identified, a proclivity for major malformations of involved ears is demonstrated. Early audiometric and otologic evaluation is indicated when the diagnosis of Klippel-Feil syndrome is made.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Audiometry
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Cochlea / abnormalities
  • Ear, Inner / abnormalities*
  • Ear, Inner / diagnostic imaging
  • Female
  • Hearing Loss, Sensorineural / diagnosis
  • Hearing Loss, Sensorineural / etiology
  • Humans
  • Klippel-Feil Syndrome / complications*
  • Male
  • Tomography, X-Ray
  • Vestibule, Labyrinth / abnormalities