Abstract

Bilateral sudden onset hearing loss and vestibular dysfunction due to metastatic carcinoma of the internal auditory canal (IAC) on both sides is an extremely rare occurrence. This is a challenging case in neuro-otology that is difficult to relieve by medical support, and spontaneous compensation by vestibular rehabilitation is minimal. The spread of tumor cells to the cerebrospinal space indicates poor prognosis. We present a patient with stage-III gastric carcinoma who experienced sudden hearing loss and severe imbalance. Radiological investigation revealed bilateral metastasis of the IAC. Clinical aspects, diagnosis, and treatment issues related to bilateral cochleovestibulopathy are discussed.