Menieres

Question 1

What is Menieres (MD)

Answer 1

An auditory disease characterised by an episodic sudden onset of vertigo, low-frequency hearing loss (in the early stages of the disorder), low-frequency roaring tinnitus, and sensation of fullness in the affected ear. Either increased production or impaired drainage of endolymph fluid. Usually unilateral

Question 2

Describe the main demographic for Menieres

Answer 2

Usually adults in their 30s. Less common in children. Slightly more common in females 1.1:1

Question 3

What is the aetiology of MD

Answer 3

Unknown clear cause but acquiring MD can be multifactorial. Viral infection, hypothyroidism,

Question 4

How does MD present?

Answer 4

Tinnitus, vertigo, hearing loss, sense of fullness

Question 5

Name some risk factors for MD

Answer 5

autoimmunity, family history, recent viral infection

Question 6

What signs suggest an MD

Answer 6

Positive romberg test

Fukudas stepping test - turns to affected side when marching w eyes closed

Question 7

Name an investigation you’d do to diagnose MD and the result you’d expect

Answer 7

Pure tone audiometry - air and bone conduction is the same in MD. Therefore underlying pathology is in the cochlea/auditory nerve rather than outer/middle ear