Perilymph is the fluid that fills the space between the bony and membranous labyrinths, including the scala vestibuli and scala tympani. Its composition is like ordinary extracellular fluid or cerebrospinal fluid, high in sodium and low in potassium. It communicates with the subarachnoid space through the cochlear aqueduct.
| Location | Between the bony and membranous labyrinths, including the scala vestibuli and scala tympani |
|---|---|
| Parts |
|
| Nerve Supply | None |
| Blood Supply | Derived from blood filtrate and cerebrospinal fluid |
Transmits sound vibrations through the cochlea and cushions the membranous labyrinth.
Sound waves from the stapes travel through the perilymph. A leak (perilymph fistula) after barotrauma, head injury or surgery causes hearing loss and dizziness. During stapes surgery a sudden rush of fluid (perilymph gusher) can occur if there is a wide connection to cerebrospinal fluid.
An abnormal leak of perilymph through the oval or round window, causing fluctuating hearing loss, tinnitus and vertigo, sometimes worse with straining.
Profuse flow of perilymph and cerebrospinal fluid on opening the inner ear during surgery, seen with certain congenital malformations.
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