The role of MRI morphological endolymphatic hydrops in patients with superior semicircular canal dehiscence

In patients with vestibulo-cochlear disorder an upper semicircular canal dehiscense may be the cause. The upper semicircular canal, very rarely the posterior or horizontal canal, is only insufficiently covered with bone so that there is a connection to the interior of the skull. Changes in sound pressure conditions arise, which lead to a disruption of labyrinthine function, which is called the third window syndrome. The exact cause of the superior semicircular canal dehiscence remains unclear. Congenital and acquired factors are assumed, although only a small proportion of patients with superior semicircular canal dehiscence also become symptomatic. Different diagnostic testings VEMPs (Vestibular Evoked Myogenic Potentials) as well as a thin-layer CT temporal bone examination are necessary to confirm the diagnosis.

In symptomatic patients (dizziness), we also performed an MRI KHBW (hydrops) examination to examine possible an endolymphatic hydrops. According to the assumption that i.a. increases and changes in pressure could play a role in the development of the superior semicircular canal dehiscence, an endolymphatic hydrops is not unlikely. We observed a high rate of endolymphatic hydrops in patients with superior canal dehiscense.

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Publication History

Article published online:
13 May 2021