The clinical effects of long-term steroid medication for Meniere's disease were studied in 13 patients, 8 with unilateral Meniere's disease and 5 with bilateral Meniere's disease.
Betamethazone (1.5 mg) was given orally at the start of therapy. The patients were followed for 24 months. The results were evaluated in accordance with the 1985 criteria established by the American Academy of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS).
1) Vertigo : Complete control of definite vertigo attacks was achieved in one patient (800), substantial control in 10 patients (76%), limited control in one patient (800), and insignificant control in one patient (8%).
2) Hearing loss : Hearing improved in 2 ears (11%), remained unchanged in 12 ears (67%), and worsened in 4 ears (22%).
There were no side effects. These results are superior to those obtained with conventional treatments. We conclude that steroid treatment is benficial for patients with Meniere's disease.
