The labyrinth is a membranous structure surrounded by dense bone which is formed in utero by intramembranous and enchondral ossification. Infections occurring in the middle ear (otitis media) may spread to inner ear and then from there inflammation can spread from inner ear into internal auditory canal. Meningitis can also spread to inner ear through cochlear aqueduct. Labyrinthitis usually results in a substantial inflammatory response causing intraluminal fibrosis. If it results in ossification, it is termed as labyrinthitis ossificans. There is a significant risk of hearing loss with bacterial meningitis. More than 20% of children suffer from auditory or vestibular symptoms with meningitis.