Otol Neurotol. 2023 Aug 15. doi: 10.1097/MAO.0000000000003984. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: To identify key risk factors for the development of bilateral Ménière’s disease.
STUDY DESIGNS: Observational study.
SETTING: Four NHS Trusts and four independent hospitals or clinics, within three distinct urban and rural regions within the United Kingdom (Norfolk, Leicestershire, and London).
METHODS: Patients with Ménière’s disease were identified at ENT or audiovestibular medicine secondary/tertiary care and specialist private clinics. A range of patient-reported data, questionnaire data, and clinical data (audiometric, radiological, and specialist balance testing data) was inputted into a bespoke database. A logistic regression model was used to identify potential risk factors for bilateral Ménière’s disease compared with unilateral Ménière’s disease.
RESULTS: A total of 411 participants were recruited into this study, 263 from NHS Trusts and 148 from independent hospitals or clinics. In our cohort of patients, 22% of individuals were identified as having bilateral Ménière’s disease. Two statistically significant independent variables were identified as risk factors for the development of bilateral Ménière’s disease: the presence of psoriasis and a history of ear infections.
CONCLUSIONS: Psoriasis and a history of ear infection have been identified as key risk factors for the development of bilateral Ménière’s disease. It is anticipated that further work based on this finding will allow a better understanding of the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms that predispose to the development of Ménière’s disease symptoms.
PMID:37590874 | DOI:10.1097/MAO.0000000000003984
