Exploring Methods to Measure the Prevalence of Ménière's Disease in the US Clinformatics™ Database, 2010-2012

Recent studies on the epidemiology of the inner-ear disorder Ménière's disease (MD) use disparate methods for sample selection, case identification and length of observation. Prevalence estimates vary geographically from 17 to 513 cases per 100,000 people. We explored the impact of case detection strategies and observation periods in estimating the prevalence of MD in the USA, using data from a large insurance claims database. Using case detection strategies of ≥1, ≥2 and ≥3 ICD-9 claim codes for MD within a 1-year period, the 2012 prevalence estimates were 66, 27 and 14 cases per 100,000 people, respectively. For ≥1, ≥2 and ≥3 insurance claims within a 3-year observation period, the prevalence estimates were 200, 104 and 66 cases per 100,000 people, respectively. Estimates based on a single claim are likely to overestimate prevalence; this conclusion is aligned with the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Foundation criteria requiring ≥2 definitive episodes for a definite diagnosis, and it has implications for future epidemiologic research. We believe estimates for ≥2 claims may be a more conservative estimate of the prevalence of MD, and multiyear estimates may be needed to allow for adequate follow-up time.