PETROUS JUGULAR MALPOSITION (DIVERTICULUM)

Jugular bulb anatomy is variable. A ''high-riding'' bulb extending int o the tympanic cavity is a well-described anomaly. Petrous jugular mal position (diverticulum) (PJMD), however, is rare. The relationship bet ween PJMD and clinical symptoms is questionable because the differenti ation between PJMD as an anatomic variant and pathologic process is un proved. A literature review reveals 14 previously documented cases. We report an additional four cases. Diagnostic and management dilemmas a re discussed, with the importance of high-resolution CT stressed.