[Diagnostic value and clinical application of inner ear imaging after an intratympanic injection of gadolinium for Meniere's disease].

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

To explore the positive visualization rate of endolymph space in Meniere's disease (MD) by three-dimensional fluid-attenuated inversion recovery magnetic resonance imaging (3D-FLAIR MRI) and assess its diagnostic value of MD.

METHODS:

3D-FLAIR MRI was performed at 24 h after an intratympanic injection of gadolinium diethylenetriamine penta-acetic acid in 51 MD patients. Then the examination results were summarized, analyzed and compared with those of vestibular evoked myogenic potential (VEMP) and glycerol tests.

RESULTS:

Gadolinium was found in perilymph inside inner ear. Furthermore the border between perilymph and endolymph was visible so that endolymphatic space was distinctly visualized on 3D-FLAIR MRI. Forty-nine (96.1%) patients demonstrated the signs of endolymphatic hydrops. Statistically significant differences existed between the results of 3D-FLAIR MRI and those of VEMP and glycerol tests (P < 0.05). No complication of tympanic membrane perforation or infection was observed.

CONCLUSION:

After an intratympanic injection of gadolinium, 3D-FLAIR MRI has a higher positive rate in MD patients. Though as an invasive procedure, it has fewer side effects and will become an important diagnostic tool for MD.

• Authors: Xi Chen, Xiao-dong Zhang, Xi Gu, Zhe-ming Fang, Rong Zhang
• Journal: Zhonghua yi xue za zhi (Zhonghua Yi Xue Za Zhi) Vol. 91 Issue 46 Pg. 3246-9 (Dec 13 2011) ISSN: 0376-2491 [Print] China
• PMID: 22333142 (Publication Type: English Abstract, Journal Article, Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.)

Chemical References

• Contrast Media
• Gadolinium

Topics

• Adult
• Aged
• Contrast Media
• Ear, Inner
• Endolymphatic Hydrops
• Female
• Gadolinium
• Humans
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (methods)
• Male
• Meniere Disease (diagnosis)
• Middle Aged
• Young Adult