MRI Helps Map the Labyrinth in Meniere’s Disease

Presenter

Allison Marie DeJordy

Campus

Springfield Technical Community College

Sponsor

Reena Randhir, Department of Biology, Springfield Technical Community College

Schedule

Session 4, 2:30 PM - 3:15 PM [Schedule by Time][Poster Grid for Time/Location]

Location

Poster Board C5, Poster Showcase Room (163), Row 1 (C1-C10) [Poster Location Map]

Abstract

     Meniere disease (MD) is a rare inner ear disorder and its symptoms include vertigo, tinnitus, or even hearing loss. In this disease there is a accumulation of endolymph fluid in the vestibule and cochlea of the inner ear. This can worsen over time hence affecting the normal functioning and the social behavior of the patient. Since studying the membranous labyrinth and fluid buildup is difficult in living patients, this disease is usually diagnosed based on symptomatic criteria. But because these symptoms are similar to other ear disorders, there is misdiagnosis and wrong inefficient treatments. This study explores the use of MRI techniques for accurate diagnosis.

       Specific MRI techniques involving the composition of multiple MRI images have been developed to better visualize the membranous labyrinth in living patients. This literature review aimed to evaluate the usefulness of MRI in diagnosis of MD and to identify common MRI markers. Research indicates that dilation of the saccule and utricle, including herniation of these structures into the semicircular canals, is a common finding specific to MD that is observable using newer MRI techniques. The accuracy of these new imaging methods has been verified by comparison to histopathological samples from the inner ears of MD patients. This suggests that MRI is a valuable tool for research into MD, and could potentially be used for more accurate diagnosis of MD based on clinical signs rather than reported symptoms.

Keywords

Meniere's disease, MRI, ENT, inner ear, diagnosis

Research Area

Disease Detection, Prevention & Treatment

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