Meniere’s Disease. Evidence and Outcomes

Overview

Meniere’s disease is the most poorly understood and controversial of the inner ear disorders and yet no critical review of the literature currently exists. Previously accepted models of pathophysiology have been discredited, yet no new mechanisms have been established. Evaluation of treatments has been complicated by the high placebo response of the disorder together with the disease’s capricious clinical course. As a result of all these issues, the literature pertaining to Meniere’s disease is clouded by anecdotal reports, invalid studies, and science of dubious quality. As a result of these factors, practicing otolaryngologists are understandably confused about how they should best evaluate and treat these patients..
Michael Ruckenstein’s new book clarifies the current state of understanding of the disorder and develops an evidence–based treatment strategy, using a number of challenging case presentations to illuminate the text. As the principal author of this landmark reference, he brings to bear his extensive expertise in the field as researcher and clinician, collaborating with a number of world-renowned contributing authors.

Contents:

•Introduction.
•Historical Perspective.
•Epidemiology.
•Pathophysiology.
•Histopathology.
•Clinical Presentation.
•Differential Diagnosis.
•Diagnostic Evaluation:
- Audiometric Testing;
- Vestibular Function Testing;
- Serologic and Immunologic Testing;
- Radiologic Testing.
•Treatment:
- Medical;
- Surgical;
- Rehabilitation;
- Psychiatric.
•Challenging Case Presentations.
•Conclusions and Future Perspectives.
•Index

Review:

Eric Ross Snyder, MD (Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine), Doody's, (June 2010):

"**Description** This is a thorough review of Meniere's disease, from historical beginnings to the latest research on diagnosis and treatment. **Purpose** The purpose is to bring some clarification to a topic which is poorly understood and therefore fraught with complexity and contradiction. The information in this book could probably be gleaned from a careful review of the existing literature, but the book presents it in a more accessible format. **Audience** It is targeted at practicing otolaryngologists, although it would probably also be useful to practicing neurologists. **Features** After a background on Meniere's disease that includes the history of the diagnosis, its pathophysiology, and clinical presentation, the book moves on to provide more detailed information on diagnostic testing, including audiology and vestibular testing. It concludes with a thorough discussion of treatment options, including rehabilitation. The book is succinct and well organized... **Assessment** The book is ... engaging and readable...".

Author:

Michael J. Ruckenstein MD, MSc, FACS, FRCSC is Professor and Residency Program Director at the Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia.

Audience:

Primary Subject: Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery / Otology
Secondary Subject: Audiology / General
Secondary Subject: Audiology / Anatomy and Physiology
Audience Level: Professional