Radiological Configuration of the Vestibular Aqueduct Predicts Bilateral Progression in Meniere's Disease

Objective: Meniere's disease (MD) progresses from unilateral to bilateral in up 50% of patients, often chronically and severely impairing balance hearing functions. According previous studies, 91% MD patients demonstrate hypoplasia the endolymphatic sac (ES) upon histological radiological examination their inner ears. Here, we seek validate a marker for ES that predicts risk future progression individual patients. Methods: Patients with evidence either clinically affected ear (cohort uni -hp ) or both ears bi were included. Given our hypothesis critically predisposes MD, expected only cohort. To investigate eventual clinical, audiometric, imaging data retrospectively collected over follow-up periods 31 years. Results: A total 44 included MD-hp ( n = 15) 29) cohorts. In line radiology-based predictions, none (0/15) exhibited whereas 20/29 (69%) have already progressed MD. Using Kaplan–Meier estimator, would be observed 100% years after initial diagnosis an estimated median time 12 The nine who, so far, remained demonstrated since (unilateral) 6 are thus still progress disease. Conclusion: Progression adheres predictions based on presence absence hypoplasia. This prognostic tool, if validated by prospective long-term will provide relevant information about patient's burden help select more personalized treatment regimens.