Pathophysiology of Acute Low-Tone Sensorineural Hearing Loss

Approach by Imaging Study

Abstract

It has been suggested that acute low-tone sensorineural hearing loss (ALHL) is associated with endolymphatic hydrops, which is thought to be a pathogenetic factor of Meniere's disease. 3-D CT revealed that the vestibular aqueduct was hypoplastic not only in patients with Meniere's disease, but also in those with ALHL, suggesting it as a common predisposing factor in both diseases. Recent studies reported in vivo visualization of endolymphatic hydrops in experimental animals using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We attempted to evaluate cochlear duct changes before and after glycerol administration. These imaging modalities may provide the evidence of an association between of ALHL and Meniere's disease.