[Diagnostics of endolymphatic hydrops]

The objective of the present work was to analyse the methods for diagnostics of endolymphatic hydrops associated with Miniere's disease most frequently employed in clinical practice using both the data from the world scientific literature and our own 25-30 year experience based on the observation of more than 500 patients. Camertonal studies of hearing acuity estimated from the results of air conduction measurements and relevant acoumetric curves were considered. The main methods of research are discussed including such as tonal threshold audiometry, ultrasound testing, loud sound lateralization, dehydration test, extratympanic electrocochleography, otoacoustic emission, and functional computed stabilometry. It is concluded that none of the above methods is as reliable as to yield the comprehensive information being sought. All the data obtained by the application of these techniques need to be supplemented by the medical history data, the patients' complaints, clinical signs and symptoms of the disease if the definitive diagnosis of endolymphatic hydrops is to be made.