The association between pulsatile tinnitus and degree of carotid stenosis

Background A pulsatile tinnitus may be the first and sole manifestation of carotid artery atherosclerosis and stenosis. The objective of this study was to detect the association between pulsatile tinnitus and degree of carotid stenosis by carotid Doppler ultrasound parameters. Patients and methods This prospective cross-sectional analytical study has been conducted on 40 selective cases complaining from pulsatile tinnitus. Carotid duplex ultrasonography scanning was done. Research has been approved by the Research Ethical Committee of Otolaryngology Department, Faculty of Medicine for Girls, AL-Azhar University. Results Carotid artery atherosclerosis and stenosis were diagnosed as a cause of pulsatile tinnitus in five patients (12.5%). The internal carotid artery (peak systolic velocity and end diastolic velocity) values were significantly higher in patients whose intima-media thickness was greater than 1 mm and the lumen diameters were smaller. Conclusion A pulsatile tinnitus may be the first, unusual, and sole manifestation of carotid artery atherosclerosis and stenosis. So, early screening and accurate diagnosis of atherosclerosis will prevent stroke and other central nervous system complications.