Menière's disease: management and theory

In view of the spontaneous remissions and exacerbations of Menière's disease, claims are often made that it can be cured with any medication, while others feel that nothing works. This article attempts to review the available information on this problem in order to obtain consistent results. The elements for a precise diagnosis, including a detailed clinical history, hearing tests, electronystagmography, petrous pyramid X-rays and laboratory studies, are presented. The course of Menière's disease and the medical and surgical treatments are evaluated. The pathophysiology of the disease is discussed, as well as the author's personal experience.