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Psychological problems are of most significant issues in patients with Meniere's disease (MD). This study aimed to reveal the frequency of anxiety and depression in MD patients compared to healthy individuals and patients with benign positional paroxysmal vertigo (BPPV) referred to a university hospital.This case-control study was conducted on individuals between 18 and 65 years old assigned to three groups: the control, MD, and BPPV groups. The data collecting instruments included a demographic information form, along with Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) and Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) questionnaires. Data were analyzed using SPSS software v.23, and the significance level was considered as p 0.05.A total of 177 participants enrolled. The average scores of anxiety and depression and the severity of anxiety and depression were higher in MD and BPPV groups than in the control group (P 0.001). The average anxiety score and anxiety severity in the MD group was higher than in the BPPV group (P 0.001). However, in the case of depression, only severity was higher in the MD group (P 0.001), and the average depression score showed no significant difference between MD and BPPV groups. After controlling for underlying variables, the impacts of MD (P 0.001; regression coefficient = 16.5) and also BPPV (P = 0.025; regression coefficient = 4.6) on anxiety were significant compared to the control group.Our results suggest that the prevalence of anxiety and depression is higher in MD and BPPV patients than the healthy people, and MD has a higher effect on the incidence of depression and anxiety compared to BPPV.

The objective of this study was to use a supervised machine learning (ML) platform and a national dataset to identify factors important in classifying common types of dizziness.Using established clinical criteria and responses to the balance and dizziness supplement from the 2016 National health Interview Survey (n = 33,028), case definitions for vestibular migraine (VM), benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) Ménière's disease (MD), persistent postural-perceptual dizziness (PPPD), superior canal dehiscence (SCD), and bilateral vestibular hypofunction (BVH) were generated. One hundred thirty-six variables consisting of sociodemographic characteristics and medical comorbidities were used to develop decision tree models to predict these common types of dizziness.The one-year prevalence of dizziness in the U.S. was 16.8% (5562 respondents). VM was highly prevalent, representing 4.0% of the overall respondents (n = 1327). ML decision tree models were able to correctly classify all 6 dizziness subtypes with high accuracy (sensitivity range, 70-92%; specificity range, 89-99%) using responses to questions about functional limitations due to dizziness, such as falls due to dizziness and modification of social activities due to dizziness.In a large population-based dataset, supervised ML models accurately predicted dizziness subtypes according to responses to questions that do not pertain to dizziness symptoms alone.

Clinically, the evidence of endolymphatic hydrops (EH) in Meniere's disease (MD) primarily relies on audiological examinations, such as glycerol tests and electrocochleography, to suggest the presence of EH indirectly. However, these techniques lack sensitivity and specificity, and they do not sufficiently assess the degree of EH. This study aims to explore the application of three-dimensional fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (3D-FLAIR) and three-dimensional real inversion recovery (3D-real IR) sequence imaging of EH in MD and to assess the image quality and grading of EH.The study included 50 patients with definite MD. The 3D-FLAIR and 3D-real IR sequence images were performed 24 h after bilateral intratympanic injection of gadolinium. The image quality of both sequences was reviewed by two experienced radiologists. The vestibular and cochlear EH grades of both sequences were reviewed by two experienced otologists using a visual grading method. The Cohen's kappa and Pearson tests were used to analyze the data.The reliability of image quality between the two radiologists was excellent (0.7 kappa 0.9). There were significant statistical differences in the image quality between the 3D-real IR and 3D-FLAIR sequences (p = 0.023 and p = 0.035, respectively). The reliability for the grading of vestibular and cochlear EH between the two otologists was excellent (0.7 kappa 0.9). The 3D-real IR sequence detected more severe hydrops than did the 3D-FLAIR sequence (p 05).The image quality of the 3D-real IR sequence is better than that of the 3D-FLAIR sequence, and there are differences in the vestibular and cochlear EH grades of both sequences. The sensitivity of the 3D-real IR sequence in the cochlea is higher. The method of visual grading can be applied to both technologies when combined with 3D-real IR.

Objectives The efficacy of intratympanic steroid (ITS) injection for intractable Meniere's disease has been reported; however, its differences in responsiveness are not fully understood. This study investigated the clinical characteristics of patients who responded to ITS injection treatment. Methods This retrospective study included 32 patients with Meniere's disease who were unable to control frequent vertigo attacks despite conservative treatment for at least 3 months. They received an intratympanic injection of dexamethasone (3.3 mg/mL) in the affected side at least three times. We measured hearing threshold, subjective symptom scores, cervical and ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potential (cVEMP and oVEMP), and performed glycerol and bithermal caloric tests. Results Satisfactory control of vertigo for 1 year after the first round of injection was found in 18 patients (56.3%; the response group). However, the injections failed to control vertigo in the other 14 patients (43.8%; the non-response group), and they were then treated with middle ear micropressure therapy. The response group showed improvement in low-frequency hearing, whereas hearing acuity did not change in the non-response group. Significantly reduced amplitude of cVEMP on the affected side was found in 62.5% of patients in the response group; however, no patients in the non-response group showed reduced amplitude of cVEMP. Conclusions ITS injection significantly improved the subjective symptoms for intractable Meniere's disease; however, the long-term effects were heterogeneous. Our results suggest that reduced amplitude in cVEMP is associated with the effectiveness of ITS injection treatment.

Background Autoimmunity may play an important role in sudden onset sensorineural hearing loss. However, little is known about the relationship between immunoglobulin E (IgE) and acute low-tone sensorinerual hearing loss (ALHL). Objectives To investigate the relationship between IgE level and endolymphatic hydrops and outcomes of ALHL. Methods A total of 242 subjects with sudden onset hearing loss, including 115 with ALHL and 127 with idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSHL), were included in this study. Peripheral venous blood samples of 242 subjects were collected for detection. Clinical data, IgE level, and distribution of allergens were compared between the ALHL and ISSHL groups. The ALHL group received an electrocochleogram (ECochG) test and a follow-up in the outpatient unit or by telephone to evaluate outcomes. Results Compared to the values in the ISSHL group, a significantly younger onset age (42.30±14.33 years old), higher female onset proportion (72/115, 62.61%), increased total IgE level (median: 66.47, interquartile range: 24.56, 180.96, IU/mL) and specific IgE level (median: 9.42, interquartile range: 1.42, 22.23 IU/mL) were noted in the ALHL group. A clear difference in allergen distribution was noted between the ALHL and ISSHL groups (p=.001). Total IgE and specific IgE levels were factors that contributed to the SP/AP ratio in the electrocochleogram (ECochG) (R2=0.413) in ALHL group. Finally, during the follow-up (17.61±3.46 months) for the ALHL group, 37 subjects recurred, and 17 subjects developed Meniere Disease. In the ROC curve for ALHL recurrence, the area under the curve (AUC) of total IgE was 0.709 and that of specific IgE was 0.679. For MD transformation, the AUC of total IgE was 0.736 and that of specific IgE was 0.716. Conclusions High IgE levels correlated with an enhanced SP/AP ratio in ALHL. High IgE levels could be used as a predictor of ALHL recurrence and MD transformation.

Purpose In the largest reported United States (U.S.) cohort of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), does the presence or absence of migraine correlate with increased associations of other factors? Materials & methods A retrospective chart review from a single U.S. neurotology center. Adult patients with BPPV from 2003 to 2017 classified into two groups: 1) with migraine; 2) without migraine. Results The prevalence of self-reported migraine history in a BPPV-positive population (n = 1481) was 25.8% (n = 382). Among those with BPPV and migraine, 88.5% were female, 8.1% had diabetes, 22.5% had prior history of BPPV, 8.9% had Meniere's disease and recurrence rate was 38.3%. No statistically significant differences between recurrence or resolution rates between the two groups were demonstrated (p > 0.05). Adjusted logistic regression model found that women and those with a prior history of BPPV had significantly higher odds of having both BPPV and migraine conditions compared to their counterparts. In contrast, older age and diabetes were associated with significantly lower odds of concomitant BPPV and migraine. Conclusions The prevalence of migraine among the study sample was 25.8%. Female gender, prior history of BPPV, younger age, and lack of diabetes were independently associated with the concurrent comorbidity of BPPV and migraine. These data further substantiate previously reported rates (from smaller studies); and, demonstrate that recurrence and resolution rates are not worse in those with BPPV and migraine compared to the general BPPV population. Findings support an association between migraine and BPPV and enhances one's ability to accurately counsel patients regarding these diseases.

Objectives Quantify number of MRI scans obtained in a tertiary neurotology practice and identify likelihood of pathologic findings. Study design Retrospective cohort study. Setting Tertiary neurotology center. Subjects and methods A retrospective analysis of all adult patients over 20 months (3/2012–10/2013) where MRI was deemed necessary for evaluation of neurotologic complaints. Demographics, clinical history, physical examination, and audiometric findings were used to categorize new patients into 7 groups: definite Meniere's disease (MD), probable MD, possible MD, vague dizziness, tinnitus only, asymmetric hearing loss (HL), and other symptoms to stratify risk for retrocochlear tumor and other relevant pathology. Results 1537 MRI scans were performed, 932 of these were for a new diagnosis. Discovering retrocochlear tumors was rare (1.4%). Patients with HL had a 0.3% (1/314) chance of retrocochlear tumor and 3.2% (10/314) chance of relevant pathology. Patients with only unilateral tinnitus had no evidence of retrocochlear tumors, and 3.8% chance of finding relevant pathology. Patients with “definite” or “probable” MD had no evidence of retrocochlear tumor or other relevant findings. All discovered acoustic neuromas were in the “possible MD” category, which had a 9.3% chance of finding all relevant pathology. Conclusions In a tertiary neurotology center, the likelihood of finding a retrocochlear tumor on MRI is rare. In the current study, unilateral tinnitus exclusively, “definite MD,” and “probable MD” failed to yield a single example of retrocochlear tumor. Patients with “possible MD” had the highest probability of finding retrocochlear tumors and other relevant pathology.

Emerging evidence suggests substantial overlap between the symptoms of Meniere’s disease (MD) and migraine-related cochlear/vestibular disorders. We report a 5-year-old girl with a 6-month history of left-sided hearing loss followed by daily episodes of vertigo, headache, and vomiting who met the criteria for definite MD. The patient became symptom-free and gained near normal hearing levels after starting on a 6-week migraine diet/lifestyle regimen with riboflavin and magnesium. We believe that the symptoms of MD may be primarily due to a vestibular migraine phenomenon. Pediatric MD patients may benefit from migraine lifestyle/dietary changes with control of both cochlear and vestibular symptoms.

Purpose Intratympanic steroid injections (ITSI) have become a promising treatment for refractory Meniere's disease due to less cochleovestibular damage. However, whether ITSI would be a good alternative to intratympanic gentamicin injections (ITGI) for refractory Meniere's disease still remains controversial. Here we intended to compare the therapeutic effect of ITSI and ITGI in patients with Meniere's disease refractory to conservative treatments, in terms of vertigo control and hearing outcomes, via a meta-analysis. Methods Using MEDLINE, PubMed, and EMBASE databases, we calculated pooled odds ratio (OR) estimates of vertigo control rate (i.e., class A according to AAO-HNS guideline) and standardized mean differences (SMD) of spell count, pure tone audiometry (PTA) threshold and speech discrimination score (SDS) with a 95% confidence interval (CI). The trim-and-fill method and sensitivity analysis were used as post-hoc analyses to verify the integrity of the quantitative analysis results. Furthermore, subgroup analyses were performed according to steroid type (methylprednisolone versus dexamethasone) and follow-up period (>1-year versus Results Five studies involving 332 patients with refractory unilateral Meniere's disease were included. In the pooled analysis, those treated with ITGI showed higher ORs than those treated with ITSI in terms of vertigo control rate (OR: 2.39, 95% CI: 0.84–6.79, P = 0.102) and spell counts (SMD: 0.24, 95% CI: −0.12–0.59, P = 0.195), but it did not reach statistical significance. However, a substantial amount of heterogeneity (I2 = 71.0%, Q = 13.79, P = 0.008) and publication bias was found, suggesting a significant small-study effect. Additionally, ITSI elicited better hearing outcomes of the mean PTA threshold (SMD: 3.08, 95% CI: −1.18–7.35) and mean SDS (SMD: 11.15, 95% CI: −23.21–0.90) compared with ITGI, although no statistical significance. In subgroup analysis, the difference in vertigo control rate between ITGI and ITSI was not significant, regardless of the follow-up period and steroid type. Further, methylprednisolone appeared to be superior to dexamethasone for vertigo control. No significant complications from either treatment were reported in the literature. Conclusion The results of this study further refine the recently proposed efficacy of ITSI for the treatment of refractory Meniere's disease, demonstrating the comparable value of ITGI on vertigo control as well as better hearing preservation. Collectively, ITSI could be a safe and the effective treatment for refractory Meniere's disease. However, the current evidence on efficacy of ITSI for refractory Meniere's disease needs to be further clarified, given the substantial heterogeneity and potential biases.

Purpose The purpose of this study was to determine whether Meniere's disease (MD) produces endolymphatic cavity size changes that are detectable using unenhanced high-resolution T2-weighted MRI. Materials & methods This retrospective case-control study included patients with documented MD who had a high-resolution T2-weighted or steady-state free procession MRI of the temporal bones within one month of diagnosis, between 2002 and 2015. Patients were compared to age- and sex- matched controls. Cross sectional area, length, and width of the vestibule and utricle were measured in both ears along with the width of the basal turn of the cochlea and its endolymphatic space. Absolute measurements and ratios of endolymph to perilymph were compared between affected, contralateral, and control ears using analysis of variance and post-hoc pairwise comparisons. Results Eighty-five case-control pairs were enrolled. Mean utricle areas for affected, contralateral, and control ears were 0.038 cm2, 0.037 cm2, and 0.033 cm2. Mean area ratios for affected, contralateral, and control ears were 0.32, 0.32, and 0.29. There was a statistically significant difference between groups for these two variables; post-hoc comparisons revealed no difference between affected and contralateral ears in Meniere's patients, while ears in control patients were different from the ears of patients with MD. All other measurements failed to show significant differences. Conclusions Enlargement of the endolymphatic cavity can be detected using non-contrast T2-weighted MRI. MRI, using existing protocols, can be a useful diagnostic tool for the evaluation of MD, and intratympanic or delayed intravenous contrast may be unnecessary for this diagnosis.

Multiple options exist to manage Ménière's disease (MD), ranging from dietary modifications to ablative surgery. Corticosteroids (CS) have long been used to manage MD, but their exact mechanism for disease alleviation is relatively uncertain. Glucocorticoid receptors have been shown to exist in the human inner ear and several studies propose they influence mechanisms of blood flow, fluid regulation, and ion regulation, with recent evidence describing the latter two. Corticosteroids have been shown to upregulate aquaporins and ion channels in the inner ear, and may have a positive effect on labyrinthine blood flow. Additionally, processes have been described in genomic and non-genomic manners. This text will review the literature on the actions of CS on the inner ear relevant to MD.

Purpose The aim of the present study was to assess if the combined therapy of intratympanic dexamethasone (ITD) and high dosage of betahistine (HDBH) is able to provide increased vertigo control compared to ITD alone in patients suffering from definite unilateral Meniere’s disease (MD). Materials and methods Consecutive MD patients were enrolled and randomly divided in two groups, each comprising 33 cases. Group A received a combination of ITD and identical-appearing placebo pills while Group B received a combination of ITD and HDBH. ITD protocol consisted of three consecutive daily injections. HDBH comprised 144 mg/day (48 mg tid). The main outcome measures were: 1) vertigo class, pure tone average (PTA), speech discrimination score (SDS) and Functional Level Score (FLS) according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery criteria; 2) complete and substantial vertigo control according to the Kaplan–Meier survival method. Results Sixty two patients completed the 24-month follow-up. A complete vertigo control was achieved in 14 patients (44%) from Group A and in 22 patients (73.3%) from Group B, statistically significant (p = 0.01). Complete vertigo relief is also significant according to the Kaplan–Meier method: p = 0.027, log rank test. Substantial vertigo control was obtained in 21 patients (65.6%) in Group A and 27 patients (90%) in Group B. The difference is statistically significant, p = 0.02. The difference is significant according to the Kaplan–Meier method: p = 0.035, log rank test. No significant differences between hearing levels and tinnitus scores were demonstrated between the groups. Conclusions Our preliminary results demonstrate that complete and substantial vertigo control is significantly higher in patients treated with a combination of HDBH and ITD.

Meniere's disease is a peripheral audiovestibular disorder characterized by vertigo, hearing loss, tinnitus, and aural fullness. Management of these symptoms includes medical and surgical treatment. Many patients with Meniere's disease can be managed using nonablative therapy, such as intratympanic steroids and endolymphatic shunt surgery, prior to ablative techniques such as intratympanic gentamicin. Recognition of concurrent migraine symptoms may aid in medical therapy and also underscore the importance of preserving vestibular function where possible. The goal of this review is to explain the importance of nonablative therapy options and discuss treatment protocols after medical failure.

Background Vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (VEMPs) have an accepted role in the diagnosis of the superior semicircular canal dehiscence (SSCD) syndrome. The current impression is that ocular VEMPs (oVEMPs) are more sensitive than cervical VEMPs (cVEMPs) for detecting a SSCD and that oVEMP testing in response to air conducted sound provides an excellent screening test without risk of radiation exposure from computerized tomography (CT). Aims/objectives To report on patients with elevated oVEMP amplitudes but without evidence for a SSCD on multiplanar CT imaging. Material and methods Retrospective chart review of all patients referred for vestibular function testing to our department. Patients with oVEMP peak-to-peak amplitudes ≥17 μν without evidence for a SSCD on imaging were evaluated. Results 26 patients had oVEMP peak-to-peak amplitudes ≥17 μν with no evidence of a SSCD on imaging. The most common diagnosis was Meniere's disease in those identified. Conclusion and significance oVEMPs can provide false positive results for diagnosis of a SSCD and an elevated oVEMP amplitude in itself is insufficient for diagnosis of a SSCD.

Purpose Evaluation of specific computerized posturographic parameters in patients with Meniere's disease (MD) following the intratympanic injection of gadolinium, a contrast agent, used in radiological diagnosing. Materials and methods We have observed 12 adult patients with unilateral Meniere's Disease subjected to inner ear magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination after intratympanic gadolinium injection (ITG). The diagnoses have been performed according to the guidelines of the American Academy of otolaryngology. Before and after 24 h the ITG, all patients were subjected to the clinical evaluation and computerized posturography (CP), in 4 conditions depending on open/closed eyes and with/without foam cushion under feet. Results After ITG, in the affected ear the MRI confirmed the endolymphatic hydrops revealing a thin or even disappeared perilymphatic space. The statokinesigram showed improvement of stability only with closed eyes on a foam cushion. The CP performed 24 h after the contrast intratympanic injection showed a significant reduction of Path Length and Confidence Ellipse Area, due to an improvement of vestibular function on static balance. This improvement could be directly dependent to intratympanic pressure modification mediated by volume of contrast liquid, by “columella effect”. Conclusions This study demonstrates the absence of vestibular damage in patients undergoing intratympanic gadolinium infiltration and confirms the relationship between intratympanic pressure and vestibular stability modifications providing positive evidences for an applicative use of CP as a functional assessment to better address diagnosis and follow-up in MD patients treated with intratympanic injections.

Osmotic diuretics such as glycerol are used for diagnostic purposes in patients with a suspect of Meniere's disease (MD). Scientific evidence in the animal model and in humans has shown that glycerol can induce a reduction in endolymphatic hydrops; however, its use for therapeutic purposes in MD has never been reported. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness on symptom control of intravenous glycerol in a sample of patients with definite unilateral MD not responsive to dietary restrictions.Forty patients with unilateral intractable MD were included in the study. After audio-vestibular evaluation, patients were treated with intravenous 10% glycerol with 0.9% sodium chloride, 0.5 g/kg ml once a day for 2 consecutive days every fifteen days for six months. Vertigo attacks were evaluated before and after therapy and categorized into classes A-F according to the 2015 Equilibrium Committee criteria. Tinnitus and quality of life were evaluated through the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory and the Functionality Level Scale questionnaires.Before treatment, patients had an average of 3.2 vertigo attacks/month; during the six months after treatment the average number of attacks/month decreased to 1.2 (p 0.0001). At the end of the study period, 25 patients (62.5%) were in Class B vertigo control; 10 patients (25%) in Class C; and 5 patients (12.5%) in Class D. No patients were in Class A, E and F. No hearing deterioration was found in all treated patients. Quality of life according to administered questionnaires improved after treatment.In our sample, intravenous infusion of glycerol for two consecutive days every fifteen days for six months based on the patient's weight improved vertigo attacks and reduced the discomfort generated by tinnitus raising quality of life in patients with unilateral MD unresponsive to dietary restrictions.

A three-dimensional inversion-recovery sequence with real reconstruction (3D-real IR) sequence 4 h after intravenous gadolinium injection (IV) has been used to visualize the endolymphatic hydrops (ELH) in Meniere's disease (MD). This study was designed to explore the pathology of MD with partial ELH.We collected 338 patients with definite MD, all of whom underwent the IV method. Patients who were found to have partial ELH (vestibular or cochlear) were enrolled. The hearing thresholds of the enrolled patients were analyzed, the regions of interest of the cochlear perilymph and the cerebellum white matter were determined, and the signal intensity ratio in the former to the latter (CC ratio) for both sides in the patients was subsequently evaluated.Of the 338 collected patients with definite MD, 19 patients (5.6%) had unilateral vestibular ELH (N = 18) or cochlear ELH (N = 1), and 4 patients (1.2%) with bilateral ELH had contralateral cochlear ELH. The CC ratio of the affected side (1.44 ± 0.46) was higher than that of the unaffected side (1.15 ± 0.33, P 0.05) in the 19 patients with unilateral ELH. Conversely, there was no difference between the ratio of the contralateral side (1.18 ± 0.16) and the unaffected side (P 0.05) in the 4 patients with bilateral ELH.Partial vestibular ELH was more common than partial cochlear ELH in MD. Moreover, vestibular ELH, rather than cochlear ELH, may correlate with the elevated contrast effect in the affected side, which may better reflect the pathologic mechanism of MD.

Objective This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of an intratympanic (IT) injection of a mixture of gentamicin and dexamethasone compared with intratympanic dexamethasone (ITD) for controlling vertigo and protecting the hearing level of Meniere's disease patients who have persistent vertigo attacks, despite medical treatment. Methods Thirty eight patients with intractable Meniere's disease were included in this study. Twenty-one patients were treated with IT mixture gentamicin and dexamethasone injection; seventeen patients were treated with ITD. Pre- and post-treatment audiograms were compared with pure-tone averages. Control of vertigo was classified according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS) vertigo control index. Results In the mixture group single IT injection was administered in 18 patients (85.7%), 2 injections were administered in 2 patients (9.5%) and 3 injections were administered in one patient (4.8%). In the ITD group IT injection was performed 3 times (days 1,3,5) at intervals. The mean number of intervals per patient was 3,41 (range 1–6). Two years after IT treatment there was better control of vertigo in mixture group than in ITD group; 81% of mixture group and 70,6% of the ITD group achieved satisfactory control of vertigo (p = 0,0286). Audiology results of mixture group showed 20 patients (95,24%) with unchanged hearing and 1 patient (4,76%) with only 10-decibel deteriorated hearing. There was no worsening of hearing in the ITD group. Conclusion The results of this study showed that an IT injection of a mixture of gentamicin and dexamethasone in intractable Meniere's disease cases is more effective than ITD for vertigo control.

Objective Determine the outcome of hearing in Meniere’s Disease (MD) after antiviral treatment. Study design Prospective study. Setting University Hospital. Methods Thirty one new patients with a diagnosis of MD were treated with antiviral drugs during 2012. Acyclovir or valacyclovir was used depending on insurance coverage and cost. A standard dose of 800 mg (acyclovir) or 1 g (valacyclovir) 3 times a day for 3 weeks was used. The dose was decreased to twice daily for three weeks, and finally once daily for a year or longer. Hearing test including pure tone average (PTA) and speech discrimination (SD) was performed prior to treatment and 1–2 months, 6 months and 1 year after the initiation of treatment. Effect on dizziness was recorded at each evaluation, hearing was judged to be improved if PTA was lowered by at least 15 db and/or an increase in SD of 20% or greater. Results Hearing was improved in twelve and not improved in nineteen patients. Complete control of vertigo was achieved in those patients with improved hearing. The nineteen patients with no improvement in hearing were divided into 2 groups based on the level of hearing at diagnosis. Nine patients presenting with a PTA of 50 db and SD of 50% or better experienced good control of vertigo (6 out of 7; 2 with no follow-up). Ten patients with PTA of 60 db or more and SD below 50% exhibited poor control of vertigo with antivirals (3 out of 10). The duration of MD in the group with hearing improvement was shorter (2.4 years) than the group with no improvement (5.5 years). Conclusion Significant hearing and balance control in patients with MD can be achieved with orally administered antiviral drugs.

Purpose: Ménière disease (MD) is a multifactorial chronic disabling condition characterized by episodic vertigo, ear fullness, and hearing loss. MD patients often complain of aspecific gastrointestinal symptoms associated with autonomic dysregulation, frequently outweighed by the otological manifestations. Dietary modifications have been reported to improve the typical MD symptoms in some cases. Our purpose was to test the urinary levels of lactulose and mannitol (double sugar test) and the fecal calprotectin, both markers of altered intestinal permeability, in subjects with definite MD in an active and inactive stage. Materials and methods: Twenty-six with definite unilateral MD were studied: 14 patients were symptomatic for at least 3 months with moderate to severe vertigo spells and a functional level ≥ 4; 12 patients had been asymptomatic (no vertigo spells) for at least 3 months and had a functional level = 1 at the time of testing. Twenty healthy volunteers were recruited as “control group”. Results: Lactulose and mannitol absorption was significantly increased in the symptomatic M patients compared to the asymptomatic group (p < 0.02 and p < 0.004, respectively) and to the controls. FC were also higher than normal only in the symptomatic group. (p < 0.01). Conclusions: An altered intestinal permeability, according to the two assays, was found only in symptomatic MD patients. The rationale for a possible relationship between MD and intestinal permeability is forwarded. The double-sugar test and FC quantification might be implemented in the MD diagnostic workup

Objectives To evaluate the long-term efficacy of endolymphatic sac shunt techniques with and without local steroid administration. Study design Retrospective case series and patient survey. Setting Tertiary university hospital. Patients Meniere's disease (MD) patients that failed medical therapy and subsequently underwent an endolymphatic sac shunt procedure. All patients had definitive or probable MD and at least 18-months of follow-up. Interventions Three variations on endolymphatic sac decompression with shunt placement were performed: Group A received no local steroids, Group B received intratympanic dexamethasone prior to incision, and Group C received dexamethasone via both intratympanic injection and direct endolymphatic sac instillation. Main outcome measure(s) Vertigo control, hearing results, and survey responses. Results Between 2002 and 2013, 124 patients with MD underwent endolymphatic sac decompression with shunt placement. 53 patients met inclusion criteria. Groups A, B, and C had 6 patients, 20 patients, and 27 patients, respectively. Mean follow-up was 56 months. Vertigo control improved in 66%, 83%, and 93% of Groups A, B, and C. Functional level improved for Group B (− 2.0) and Group C (− 2.2) but was unchanged in Group A. Pure-tone average and speech discrimination scores changed by + 22 dB and − 30%, + 6 dB and − 13%, and + 6 dB and − 5% in Groups A, B, and C. The long-term hearing results were significantly better with steroids (Groups B and C) according to the AAO-HNS 1995 criteria but did not meet significance on non-parametric testing. Conclusions Endolymphatic sac shunt procedures may benefit from steroid instillation at the time of shunt placement.

Purpose To determine the rate of persistent tympanic membrane perforation after intratympanic steroid injection. To determine which comorbid conditions and risk factors are associated with prolonged time to perforation closure following intratympanic steroid injection. Materials and methods Clinical data were gathered for patients who had undergone intratympanic steroid injection to treat sudden sensorineural hearing loss or Meniere's disease. Primary outcomes analysis included rate of persistent tympanic membrane perforation, defined as perforation at least 90 days following last injection, and time to perforation healing. Age, sex, number of injections, smoking status, diabetes mellitus, previous head and neck irradiation, and concurrent oral steroids, were analyzed as potential predictors of persistent perforation. Results One hundred ninety two patients were included in this study. Three patients (1.6%) had persistent tympanic membrane perforations. All three patients received multiple injections. One patient underwent tympanoplasty for repair of persistent perforation. The median time to perforation healing was 18 days. There was no statistically significant variable associated with time to perforation healing. However, patients with prior history of head and neck radiation averaged 36.5 days for perforation healing compared to 17.5 days with no prior history of radiation and this approached statistical significance ( p = 0.078). Conclusions The rate of persistent tympanic membrane perforation following intratympanic steroid injection is low. Patients with a history of radiation to the head and neck may be at increased risk for prolonged time for closure of perforation.

The current guidelines of the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery entrust the diagnosis of Ménière disease (MD) only to the clinical presentation and the pure tone audiometry. However, most otolaryngologists request a widened instrumental evaluation of the patients suspected of MD. The effective reliability of the further instrumental support for the diagnosis of MD is still debated in the literature because of nonstandardized procedures and sometimes incoherence among authors. New and more sophisticated diagnostic tests have been developed both in audiovestibology and in imaging in the last few years. A review of the recent literature on this controversial subject is provided.

Purpose The objective of this study was to assess the usefulness of low-dose intratympanic gentamicin administration in patients with Meniere's disease (MD). Materials and Methods We carried out a retrospective review of the charts of 55 patients with definite MD in accordance with the AAO-HNS (American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery) Diagnostic Scale who were treated at Gruppo Otologico (Piacenza, Rome, Italy). The treatment protocol consisted of 3 intratympanic injections of gentamicin at a 12-hour interval between each administration. Results Results were resumed in accordance with AAO-HNS criteria and showed complete control of vertigo spells in 60% (class A), good control in 16% (class B), moderate control in 4% (class C), poor control in 16% (class D), and no control in 4% (class E) of the patients. Audiological assessment showed unchanged thresholds in 61%, improvement in 22%, and worsening in 17% of the cases. Conclusion Administration of gentamicin is a good alternative to medical and surgical procedures in the treatment of intractable MD. One-day treatment allows for adequate control of vertigo attacks without compromising hearing and quality of life and with reduced costs.

1. Describe the prevalence of Meniere's disease in the United States. 2. Recognize important patient and environmental factors in Meniere's disease.• Discharge data from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample, the largest US all-payer inpatient care database was analyzed for Meniere's disease between 2008 and 2010 in patients10 years old. Patient characteristics including prevalence, age, sex, race, household income, and geographic location were studied to determine any correlation with disease prevalence. • T-test, Chi-square and logistic regression testing was used to compare the differences between groups for continuous and categorical data.• The lower limit of Meniere's prevalence in the United States population was 73 per 100,000, females 84 per 100,000 compared to 56 per 100,000 among males (OR = 1.51, 95% CI 1.48-1.54, P0.01). • Prevalence was highest in Caucasians 91 per 100,000, and was significantly higher than other ethnic groups (P0.05). • Prevalence increased as age with the highest prevalence found in 81-90 year age group. • Midwest prevalence (94 per 100,000) was significantly higher than other regions (P0.001). • Meniere's is more common in less populated locations and the prevalence decreased as population increased. • Meniere's prevalence increased with household income. The highest prevalence was found among the 76th-100th quartile with rates of 86 per 100,000 for MD.Environmental factors, race and ethnicity, gender and age appear to be important factors in the prevalence of Meniere's disease.

The aim of the study is to probe whether intratympanically gadolinium contrast-enhanced three-dimensional fluid-attenuated inversion recovery magnetic resonance imaging, together with magnetic resonance imaging scoring system of the perilymphatic space, had advantages in diagnosing patients with bilateral Meniere's disease.Eight patients diagnosed as 'definite' bilateral Meniere's disease and two patients considered as 'possible' Meniere's disease were selected for the current study. All ten patients underwent caloric test, vestibular evoked myogenic potential and intratympanically gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging. The perilymphatic space of scanned images were analyzed to investigate the presence of endolymphatic hydrops. The positive rates (bilaterally abnormal patients/patients tested) of the three examinations in the eight patients with bilateral Meniere's disease were calculated respectively. We also selected eight patients with unilateral Meniere's disease as the control group by the method of simple random sampling without replacement.According to the magnetic resonance imaging scoring system, 100% (8/8) of the patients with bilateral Meniere's disease had bilateral endolymphatic hydrops. The positive rates of vestibular evoked myogenic potential and caloric test were 50% (4/8) and 25% (2/8), respectively. There was a significant difference among the positive rates of the three examinations (P.05). Two patients with 'possible' Meniere's disease had bilateral endolymphatic hydrops by magnetic resonance imaging. Eight patients with unilateral Meniere's disease displayed endolymphatic hydrops of the affected ears.Intratympanically gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging has a relatively high positive rate of exhibiting bilateral endolymphatic hydrops. This technique with the magnetic resonance imaging scoring system is valuable when diagnosing bilateral Meniere's disease.

Purpose The objective of our randomized, double-blind study was to compare the effectiveness of intratympanic (IT) dexamethasone versus high-dosage of betahistine in the treatment of patients with intractable unilateral Meniere disease (MD). Materials and methods Sixty six patients with definite unilateral MD were randomly divided in two groups: Group A received a combination of IT dexamethasone (DX) and identical-appearing placebo pills while Group B received a combination of high-dosage betahistine and IT saline. Intratympanic injections were repeated for three times with an interlude of 3 days. High-dosage of betahistine entailed 144 mg/day. Mean outcome measures consisted of vertigo control, pure tone average (PTA), speech discrimination score, Functional Level Score, Dizziness Handicap Inventory and Tinnitus Handicap Inventory. Results Fifty nine patients completed the study and were available at 12 months for analysis. In Group A complete vertigo control (class A) was attained in 14 patients (46.6%) and substantial control (class B) in 7 patients (20%). In Group B, 12 patients (41%) achieved complete vertigo control (class A), 5 patients (17%) substantial control (class B). There is no statistical difference in vertigo control between the two treatment groups. In Group A hearing was unchanged in 14 patients and improved in 4 patients, while in Group B hearing was unchanged in 16 patients and improved in 2 patients. Conclusions Our preliminary results demonstrate that high-dosage of betahistine achieved similar outcomes as IT dexamethasone in the control of vertigo and hearing preservation.

To study the relationship of the length of the external aperture of the vestibular aqueduct and the ratio of the summating potential and action potential (SP:AP) in patients with Meniere's disease.Retrospective case study.Neurotology referral center.Fifty-four patients with Meniere's disease and nine control subjects without Meniere's disease.The external aperture of the vestibular aqueduct was measured from a three-dimensional surface reconstruction computed tomography scan. Transtympanic electrocochleography was performed on patients with Meniere's disease.The length of the external aperture of the vestibular aqueduct in the Meniere's disease ears was related to the SP:AP ratio in the Meniere's disease ears and compared with controls.The average length of the external aperture was 3.79 +/- 2.92 mm in Meniere's disease ears and 5.35 +/- 1.73 mm in the control ears (p0.05). An enlarged SP:AP ratio was found in 95% of ears in the group with nonvisible external apertures of the vestibular aqueduct, 91% of ears in the5 mm group, 58% of ears in the 5-7 mm group, and 29% of ears in the7 mm group (chi-square = 24.814; p = 0.000).The length of the external aperture of the vestibular aqueduct in patients with Meniere's disease is significantly shorter than in those without Meniere's disease. Endolymphatic hydrops, evidenced by an enlarged SP:AP ratio, was related to the length of the external aperture of the vestibular aqueduct. The shorter the external aperture, the more often the SP:AP ratio was enlarged. A short or nonvisible external aperture of the vestibular aqueduct is a predisposing factor to the development of Meniere's disease.

Objective: To correlate patient response and recurrence rate after canalith repositioning to clinical presentation and cause of BPPV. Study Design: This was a retrospective chart review. Setting: This study was performed at a tertiary referral center. Patients: The study included patients with a diagnosis of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo based on history and the presence of a positive response to the Dix-Hallpike maneuver (affected ear down) who were treated at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences between January 1993 and February 1997 using canalith repositioning. There were 52 patients (13 men, 39 women) with an average age of 63 years. Intervention: Canalith repositioning was performed without the use of vibration, with the maneuver repeated up to three times as necessary at the initial session until vertigo and nystagmus were abolished. Main Outcome Measure: Initial response, defined as complete response (elimination of nystagmus and symptoms), improved response (elimination of nystagmus but with some residual symptoms), or no response (continued nystagmus and symptoms), as well as recurrence rate. Results: Initial complete response was seen in 66% of patients, and 33% showed improved response. This difference was believed to be caused by the pathophysiology. Recurrence rates appeared to be correlated to cause, with higher rates reflecting ongoing inner ear injury, such as with Meniere disease. Conclusions: Canalith repositioning was effective in 99% of patients based on elimination of nystagmus. Partial responders probably experienced resolution naturally over time because of a difference in pathophysiology. Higher recurrence rates can be expected when the cause is thought to involve an ongoing process.

Objective: To define the clinical value of extratympanic electrocochleography (ECoG) in the diagnosis of Meniere's disease. Study Design: Retrospective case review. Setting: An otology/neurotology referral center. Patients: A group of 252 patients with symptoms consistent with Meniere's disease and 20 normal-hearing control subjects. Intervention: All patients underwent audiologic testing and extratympanic ECoG at the time of initial evaluation and, when possible, following treatment. Main Outcome Measures: Audiologic thresholds and summating and action potential ratios (SP:AP). Results: Patients were classified into definite, probable, possible, and bilateral Meniere's disease groups according to American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS) guidelines. The definite Meniere's group demonstrated an elevated SP:AP ratio in 74% of cases, the possible Meniere's group in 64%, and the bilateral group demonstrated elevated ratios in both ears in 66%. Contralateral ears produced elevated ratios in 42% for unilateral cases, whereas 40% of these ears reported at least one contralateral symptom. All 40 control ears were normal (SP:AP ≥0.50). Results statistically correlated (p = 0.004) with the Meniere's staging system set forth in the 1995 AAO-HNS guidelines. No correlation was found between ECoG results and disease duration. Although 72% of the 86 follow-up patients reported complete or substantial vertigo control, changes from initial ECoG results did not specifically correlate to vertigo, tinnitus, or aural fullness improvement. Conclusions: Extratympanic ECoG can be useful in the diagnosis of Meniere's disease, lending promise to possible cases where objective audiologic data are lacking. Each testing center should study its own results to establish meaningful parameters and confidence levels.

The cause and pathogenesis of Meniere’s disease remains both controversial and undefined. Although the pathological correlate of Meniere’s disease, endolymphatic hydrops, has been well established, it remains unclear as to how this pathological finding can result in the classical symptom complex of fluctuating and progressive hearing loss and tinnitus, episodic vertigo, and aural fullness. In the majority of cases, an etiologic agent responsible for Meniere’s disease cannot be identified. However, in a minority of cases, the symptom complex may be associated with traumatic, metabolic, infectious, or familial causes.le3 Pathological analysis shows that the finding of endolymphatic hydrops is not restricted to patients with the clinical diagnosis of Meniere’s disease, but is also seen in such infectious conditions as otitis media, meningitis, syphilis, and labyrinthitis; autoimmune diseases affecting the inner ear (eg, Cogan’s syndrome); and cases of otosclerosis and head trauma.1J*4 Thus, although a single etiologic agent cannot be identified in the majority of patients with Meniere’s disease, a variety of dissimilar insults to the inner ear may cause a clinical syndrome akin to idiopathic Meniere’s disease. Equally interesting is the fact that only a minority of patients with a history of a disease process that may potentially result

We report the case of a man affected by a unilateral Meniere's disease who, after being free from vertigo spells and tinnitus for more than ten years, manifested an exacerbation of symptoms just before the diagnosis of a choroidal melanoma. Melanoma is an aggressive form of cancer derived from neuroectodermal melanocytes. Melanocytes are present in the inner ear where they contribute to the production of endolymphatic potentials and to the maintenance of normal volumes of the inner ear fluids. A possible autoimmune connection between the exacerbation of audiovestibular symptoms and melanoma is discussed.

We report the case of a 63-year-old female with definite unilateral Meniere disease, osteoarthritis of the distal finger joints with mucous cysts and Heberden's nodes, and constipation with recurrent abdominal pain whose symptoms remitted after 6months of a restrictive gluten-free diet.

Introduction: Vestibular nerve section is considered to be the most effective surgical procedure for control of intractable symptoms secondary to labyrinthine and eighth nerve function. This study was developed to retrospectively evaluate the efficacy of vestibular nerve section in patients treated for disabling labyrinthine dysfunction. Methods: A retrospective review of hospital and office records was carried out on 39 patients who underwent vestibular nerve section. All patients received a comprehensive questionnaire to subjectively evaluate efficacy. Results: Questionnaires were returned from 36 of 39 patients. Follow-up averaged 51 months. A decrease in vertiginous attacks was reported by 94% of patients. An improvement in activity tolerance was reported by 30% of patients. Preoperative tinnitus and ear fullness reportedly improved after surgery in 53% and 65% or patients respectively. Complications encountered included cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak (six patients), meningitis (two patients), and intracranial fluid collection (one patient). Conclusion: Vestibular nerve section is a relatively safe and effective method of treatment for intractable vertigo.

Objectives The aim of this study was to assess whether gadolinium-based contrast agent influences short-term hearing function in patients with Meniere's disease undergoing intratympanically enhanced inner-ear magnetic resonance imaging. Design This is a prospective cohort study. Setting This study was conducted a tertiary referral university hospital, ENT department. Participants In this study, 21 adult patients with definite, unilateral Meniere's disease were included. According to the criteria of the Committee on Hearing and Equilibrium, all patients were in stage 1 or 2 of the disease, with largely preserved hearing function. Outcomes All patients underwent clinical and audiologic testing before and 24 hours after intratympanic application of gadolinium-based contrast agent. The effects of the contrast medium on the hearing function were assessed by analysis of frequency thresholds, pure-tone average from 500 Hz to 3 kHz, and speech audiometry. Results Pure-tone average and single-frequency thresholds in audiometry showed no statistically significant difference after the application of intratympanic gadolinium-based contrast agent. Furthermore, speech audiometry scores remained stable after the application of the contrast agent. Conclusions This study did not demonstrate clinically significant short-term effects of intratympanic application of gadolinium-based contrast agent on hearing function in patients with Meniere's disease in initial stages.

Our experience with 102 patients having superior semicircular canal dehiscence confirm that the clinical manifestations of the disease are very diverse; we also identified 3 patients who showed Meniere-like symptoms. Clinical examination during an acute vertigo attack of a patient with Meniere disease for several years and whom we subsequently diagnosed as having large superior semicircular canal dehiscence on the affected side allowed us to hypothesize that a natural plugging of the superior semicircular canal by the overhanging dura mater could be responsible for the recurrence of symptoms. Clinical and instrumental data were very similar to those recorded in 7 of 9 patients immediately after surgical plugging. The aim of the study was to understand which semiological and instrumental elements could be clinically useful, first in distinguishing Meniere disease from superior semicircular canal dehiscence and, secondly, in understanding if signs of natural plugging are present.