Latest Findings on Rare Disease of the Inner Ear

KREMS, Austria - Aug. 4, 2023 - PRLog -- Elaborate 3D analysis of the inner ear now, for the first time, provide insights into volume changes of special structures in sufferers of the so-called Ménière's disease. The cause of this rare disease remains unclear to this day, although it leads to severe balance disorders, among other things. A successful collaboration between the Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences (Krems, Austria) and Harvard Medical School and Johns Hopkins University (both USA) has now provided new insights into the disease process. Using 3D-reconstructions of inner ears (based on anatomical slices) the international team was able to measure for the first time altered volumes of structures known as endolymphatic compartments in patients with the disease. A connection with the thickness of special membranes in the inner ear was also identified. In addition, further evidence was found concerning the functioning of a poorly understood structure in the inner ear (Bast's valve).

Original Publication: Differential Volume Increase of Endolymphatic Compartments in Ménière's Disease Is Inversely Associated With Membrane Thickness. B. Büki, B. K. Ward & F. Santos. Otol Neurotol. 2023 Jul 18. DOI: 10.1097/MAO.0000000000003960

Scientific Contact

Dr. Béla Büki

University Hospital Krems

Karl Landsteiner University for Health Sciences

3500 Krems / Austria

T +43 2732 9004 5243

E bela.bueki@krems.lknoe.at
W https://www.kl.ac.at/

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Dr. Barbara Bauder

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3400 Klosterneuburg / Austria

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