Superior Canal Dehiscence Syndrome

Superior canal dehiscence syndrome, or Minor’s syndrome, is a recently described disease that results from the absence of bone over the superior semicircular canal which results in the communication between the perilymphatic space of the canal and the intra-cranial space. It is characterized by a wide range of symptoms involving imbalance, hearing loss or both. Symptoms may include strange perceptions such as being able to hear one’s eyes moving, and dizziness on exposure to loud sounds. Because of this, patients may undergo multiple investigations, inappropriate treatments including psychiatric interventions, or even inappropriate surgical interventions. Superior canal dehiscence syndrome is not a rare disease, thus is relatively easy to diagnose. Current treatment approaches include reassurance, and in a few patients, surgical intervention. Its diagnosis requires a high index of suspicion, since it is a new syndrome and many family doctors, neurologists and even otolaryngologists are not aware of its existence. Its diagnosis can be challenging, since it can be easily confused with other conditions. Its symptoms mimic many other better known conditions. The literature has been reviewed to characterize this syndrome’s presentations, investigations and treatments. Hopefully this will increase the awareness of the medical community about this complex and interesting disease.