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A newly recognized etiology of Meniére's syndrome. A preliminary report
1ECHO Foundation, Birmingham, Alabama.
Abstract:
Many etiologic agents for Meniére's syndrome have been proposed, suggesting a heterogeneous nature for this disorder. Dissimilar etiologies could, of course, yield disparate responses to uniform treatment. Although electrocochleography has provided us with some objective diagnostic criteria, the actual identification of Meniére's syndrome rests predominantly on clinical criteria. Several of our patients with dysautonomia presented with classical symptoms of Meniére's syndrome. Twenty-five of these patients were treated with increased fluid and sodium intake and flurocortisone, a mineralcorticoid agent. Our favorable results have led us to postulate a heretofore unrecognized etiology for Meniére's syndrome, and speculate on some of the previously reported responses of Meniére's syndrome to corticosteroid treatment.
Insights
Dysautonomia may cause Meniére's syndrome. Treating patients with increased fluid, sodium, and flurocortisone showed favorable results, suggesting a new cause for this inner ear disorder.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Otolaryngology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Meniére's syndrome is characterized by heterogeneous etiologies, complicating diagnosis and treatment.
- Current diagnosis relies heavily on clinical criteria, with electrocochleography offering limited objective measures.
- Dysautonomia has been observed in patients presenting with Meniére's syndrome symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate a potential link between dysautonomia and Meniére's syndrome.
- To evaluate the efficacy of specific treatments in patients with Meniére's syndrome and dysautonomia.
Main Methods:
- Clinical observation of patients with dysautonomia exhibiting Meniére's syndrome symptoms.
- Treatment of 25 patients with increased fluid and sodium intake, alongside flurocortisone (a mineralocorticoid).
Main Results:
- Favorable outcomes were observed in the 25 treated patients.
- These results suggest a potential new etiology for Meniére's syndrome.
Conclusions:
- Dysautonomia is postulated as a previously unrecognized cause of Meniére's syndrome.
- The findings may explain some prior responses of Meniére's syndrome to corticosteroid treatments.