The link between allergy and Menière's disease

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Immunology
• Neurology

Background:

• Menière's disease is a complex inner ear disorder.
• Allergy is increasingly recognized as a potential contributing factor.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the evidence linking allergy and Menière's disease.
• To assess the potential role of allergy in Menière's disease pathogenesis and management.

Main Methods:

• Review of animal studies on immune challenges and inner ear responses.
• Analysis of human studies investigating allergic responses in Menière's disease patients.
• Examination of pharmacological treatments targeting allergic pathways.

Main Results:

• Animal models show allergic reactions in the inner ear and prevention of endolymphatic hydrops with leukotriene antagonists.
• Human studies suggest heightened allergic responses in Menière's disease patients.
• Histamine receptor antagonists aid in controlling vertiginous symptoms.

Conclusions:

• The causal link between allergy and Menière's disease remains inconclusive.
• Allergy control is a low-risk addition to Menière's disease treatment.
• Consider allergy management for patients with a history of allergies, bilateral symptoms, or symptom onset post-allergen exposure.