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Superior Canal Dehiscence Syndrome
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Superior Canal Dehiscence Syndrome (SCDS) is a disorder that
was originally described by Lloyd Minor at the Johns Hopkins
Hospital on the basis of
a characteristic consternation of signs and symptoms. Prior to recognition of
this syndrome, patients with SCDS who sought medical attention were often
dismissed or worse, given a psychiatric diagnosis. Patients with SCDS typically present with
episodes of debilitating dizziness that occur with straining and/or loud
noises. The patient may have heightened
awareness of certain noises such as their own breathing or beating of their own
hearts. Patients with mild cases may
experience these symptoms infrequently, while those with severe symptoms may be
extremely debilitated and unable to work.
The symptoms
of SCDS occur because the lining of one of the major balance organs, the
superior canal, lacks a bony covering.
Because the balance organs require a certain concentration of various
salts to work properly, a hole in the superior canal alters this concentration
and results in dizziness. Most of then the opening is small so that the only
time the salts do mix is when the person strains or hears loud noises.
SCDS is
typically diagnosed on the basis of a specialized imaging study called a CT
scan performed where the specific balance organs are examined in fine detail.
Minor cases of SCDS may only require
occasional abortive treatment for the dizzy spells. However, more severe cases
require surgical intervention. In this procedure, performed only by sub-specialized
otolaryngologists called neurootologists, the affected canal is typically
plugged and resurfaced. This results in resolution of symptoms in well over 90%
of affected patients.
If you, a
loved one or one of your patients suffers from symptoms consistent with SCDS,
please give us a call.
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