======Traumatic cerebrospinal fluid otorrhea=====

[[Cerebrospinal fluid otorrhea]] occurs only if a perforation in the [[tympanic membrane]] or a defect in the external ear canal is present. This is often the case when the leakage results from trauma or previous ear surgery. However, in the absence of such a defect, the fluid flows down the eustachian tube and manifests as clear [[rhinorrhea]].
----
CSF otorrhea usually occurs through a [[petrous bone fracture]] with perforation of the [[tympanic membrane]], although it can occasionally take place through a laceration of the external canal via fractured [[mastoid air cells]].
----


Late-onset [[cerebrospinal fluid otorrhea]] is especially rare because most otorrhea stops immediately and naturally.

Most reports recommend immediate surgical repair for the treatment of delayed CSF leakage, but the optimal surgical approach remains controversial. 

===== Diagnosis =====
[[Cerebrospinal fluid fistula diagnosis]].

===== Treatment =====

[[Traumatic cerebrospinal fluid otorrhea treatment]].