CSF otorrhoea is the leakage of cerebrospinal fluid from the subarachnoid space into the ear. It could present with leakage of clear watery fluid through the ear, but in some cases the fluid may leak into the nose via the eustachian tube (CSF otorhinorrhoea). Patients may also present with repeated episodes of meningitis.

Management involves identifying the exact site of leak with the help of radiological investigations like HRCT temporal bone or CT cisternography followed by repair of the defect. Transmastoid surgical repair is usually performed via an incision behind the ear.