[Superior canal dehiscence syndrome]

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Neuroscience
• Audiology

Background:

• Superior canal dehiscence syndrome (SCDS) involves a bony defect over the superior semicircular canal.
• This defect acts as a
• third window
• altering inner ear mechanics.
• It is associated with various cochleo-vestibular symptoms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic methods, and management of SCDS.
• To highlight the impact of the
• third window
• on auditory and vestibular function.

Main Methods:

• Review of clinical symptoms including hyperacusis, autophony, pulsatile tinnitus, and vertigo.
• Auditory and vestibular function testing.
• Diagnosis confirmed by high-resolution computed tomography (CT) scan showing the dehiscence.

Main Results:

• SCDS can cause characteristic symptoms such as bone conduction hyperacusis, autophony, pulsatile tinnitus, and sound/pressure-induced vertigo.
• The dehiscence creates a "third window", disrupting normal inner ear biomechanics.
• Diagnosis relies on correlating symptoms with objective testing and CT findings.

Conclusions:

• Superior canal dehiscence syndrome is a distinct clinical entity caused by a bony defect.
• Accurate diagnosis through symptom evaluation, functional testing, and CT imaging is crucial.
• Management options include medical and surgical interventions for symptomatic individuals.