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Ménière's disease and allergy: Epidemiology, pathogenesis, and therapy
Wandi Xu1,2, Xiaofei Li1,2,3, Yongdong Song1,2,3
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Shandong Provincial ENT Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China.
Abstract:
The etiology of Ménière's disease (MD) remains controversial. Allergies are potential extrinsic factors that, in conjunction with underlying intrinsic factors, may cause MD. The link between allergies and MD was first described in 1923. For nearly a century, studies have demonstrated a possible link between allergies and MD, even though a causal relationship has not been definitively determined. Previous reviews have mainly focused on clinical epidemiology studies of patients. In this review, we shed light on the association between allergies and MD not only in terms of its epidemiology, but also from an immunology, pathophysiology, and immunotherapy perspective in both patients and animal models. Patients with MD tend to have a high risk of comorbid allergies or an allergy history, showing positive allergy immunology characteristics. Other MD-related diseases, such as migraine, may also interact with allergies. Allergy mediators such as IgE may worsen the symptoms of MD. Deposits of IgE in the vestibular end organs indicate the ability of the inner ear to participate in immune reactions. Allergic challenges can induce vertigo in animals and humans. Anti-allergy therapy plays a positive role in patients with MD and animal models of endolymphatic hydrops.
Insights
Allergies may contribute to Ménière
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Immunology
- Pathophysiology
Background:
- The exact causes of Ménière's disease (MD) are still debated.
- A potential link between allergies and MD has been observed for nearly a century.
- Previous reviews primarily focused on clinical epidemiology, neglecting other crucial aspects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the association between allergies and MD from multiple perspectives.
- To review epidemiological, immunological, pathophysiological, and immunotherapeutic evidence.
- To investigate the role of allergies in both human patients and animal models.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review focusing on immunology, pathophysiology, and immunotherapy.
- Analysis of studies involving both Ménière's disease patients and animal models.
- Examination of the impact of allergy mediators and anti-allergy therapies.
Main Results:
- Patients with MD frequently exhibit comorbid allergies and positive allergy immunology markers.
- Allergy mediators like IgE may exacerbate MD symptoms, with IgE deposits found in the inner ear.
- Allergic challenges can trigger vertigo in humans and animals, and anti-allergy treatments show promise.
Conclusions:
- Allergies represent a significant factor in Ménière's disease etiology, impacting its immunology and pathophysiology.
- The inner ear's immune response and the effects of allergy mediators warrant further investigation.
- Targeting allergies through immunotherapy may offer a therapeutic strategy for Ménière's disease.
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