Endolymphatic Hydrops, Evaluated Using 3T MRI in Patients with Clinically Confirmed Meniere Disease

Ménière’s disease (MD) is characterised by intermittent episodes of vertigo with fluctuating sensorineural hearing loss, tinnitus and aural fullness. Despite numerous studies, the etiology of this disorder remains poorly understood and thus diagnostic criteria are mainly clinical. Development and progress in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques, in 2007, has enabled visualisation of endolymphatic hydrops, which was the milestone achievement. We present two cases of patients with clinically confirmed MD with a set of audiological, otoneurological examinations and MRI performed. Structures of the inner ear were visualized using contrast-enhanced MR imaging after a 4-hour delayed intravenous gadolinium administration. The cochlea and vestibule were evaluated separately and classified using Barath grading scale. Endolymphatic hydrops in the clinically affected ears were confirmed using MRI. Due to disabling and intractable MD, a decision about vestibular neurectomy was made.