Home > Encyclopedia of Medicine > Labyrinthitis

Definition

Labyrinthitis is an inflammation of the inner ear that is often a complication of otitis media. It is caused by the spread of bacterial or viral infections from the head or respiratory tract into the inner ear.

Description

Labyrinthitis is characterized by dizziness or feelings of motion sickness caused by disturbance of the sense of balance.

Causes and symptoms

Causes

The disease agents that cause labyrinthitis may reach the inner ear by one of three routes:

• Bacteria may be carried from the middle ear or the membranes that cover the brain.
• The viruses that cause mumps,