Proposal of a Theoretically Feasible Method to Perform Perilymph Sampling in Clinical Settings

Area of Science:

• Otorhinolaryngology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Perilymph analysis is crucial for studying inner ear pathologies.
• Current perilymph sampling is limited to research due to risks like hearing loss.
• Developing safe clinical sampling methods is essential for diagnosing inner ear diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current literature on perilymph sampling techniques.
• To propose a feasible method for collecting perilymph in clinical settings.
• To explore the potential of microneedle technology for safe inner ear fluid sampling.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review of perilymph sampling and analysis studies.
• Inclusion of research on microneedle technology for inner ear applications.
• Analysis of proteomic, metabolomic, and miRNA data from human perilymph studies.

Main Results:

• Eight studies analyzing perilymph composition (proteomic, metabolomic, miRNA) were identified.
• Two articles detailed microneedle use in the inner ear with auditory outcomes.
• A combination of transcanalar round window access, micro-endoscopes, and microneedles is proposed.

Conclusions:

• Perilymph analysis is a valuable tool for understanding inner ear diseases.
• Microneedle technology offers a promising approach for safe and efficient perilymph collection.
• The proposed method could make perilymph sampling feasible in an outpatient clinical setting.