Intratympanic dexamethasone in Meniere’s disease

Introduction: In Meniere’s disease, medical treatment consists of salt restriction, vasodilators, diuretics, and symptomatic therapy for the nausea and diaphoresis associated with spells of vertigo. If medical treatment fails, other modalities of treatment should be considered. The aim of this study is to assess the efficacy of intratympanic dexamethasone in such failed cases. Patients and methods: The study was done in 2 centers: Jordan University Hospital/Amman/Jordan, and the Consultation Center of Nineveh Medical College/Nineveh/Iraq, in the period from 2009 to 2014. Twenty-five patients with Meniere’s disease who did not respond to medical treatment were managed by intratympanic dexamethasone for at least 3 months. The follow up period was from 1 to 5 years. The response was quantified by assessing the quality of life improvement. Results: The age of the patients ranged from 28 to 58 years with mean ± SD (43.84 ± 8.80) years. There were 12 (48%) males and 13 (52%) females. Clinical improvement was reported in 22 patients with overall success rate (88%). Statistical analysis shows a significant improvement in the quality of life after the therapy. The improvement was overall and mainly with vertigo symptoms. The improvement in hearing and tinnitus was minimal. Conclusion: Intratympanic dexamethasone for Meniere’s disease is very satisfactory if medical treatment fails with good vertigo control and no risk to hearing.