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Updated: Jun 11, 2025

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Using Unidirectional Rotations to Improve Vestibular System Asymmetry in Patients with Vestibular Dysfunction
Published on: August 30, 2019
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Vestibular Dysfunction in Patients With Sickle Cell Disease: A Systematic Review
Jonathan Laredo1, Sofia Torres-Small1, Lin Wu2
1University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee.
Summary
Sickle cell disease (SCD) can cause inner ear problems, including vestibular dysfunction, affecting balance and hearing. Early diagnosis through imaging is crucial for better patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Sickle cell disease (SCD) is linked to sensorineural hearing loss via cochlear vascular issues.
- Vestibular dysfunction in SCD patients is understudied despite shared blood supply with the cochlea.
Approach:
- A systematic review of 2,495 studies was conducted using multiple databases up to December 2023.
- Data extraction and quality assessment followed PRISMA and NIH guidelines.
- Inclusion criteria focused on vestibular symptoms in SCD patients; exclusion criteria removed non-English articles and treatment side effects.
Key Points:
- 19% of SCD patients with head imaging reported inner ear complaints; 70% experienced dizziness.
- Temporal bone MRIs revealed labyrinthine hemorrhage and ossificans, sometimes without symptoms.
- Endothelial dysfunction correlated with vertigo duration in children; older age correlated with symptom onset.
Conclusions:
- Data on SCD-related vestibulopathy are limited and of low quality.
- A link exists between SCD and vestibular symptoms, but treatment data are scarce.
- Further research is needed for early diagnosis and improved management of vestibular dysfunction in SCD.
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