From: anonymous@aol.com
Subject: Corticosteroids and labyrinthitis
Posted-By: xx108 (ENT Clinic Moderator)
Organization: Organization For Community Networks
Date: Sun, 27 Apr 1997 03:48:11 -0400 (EDT)
Newsgroups: ofcn.clinic.ent

My ENT has prescribed a 6-day steroid dose pack for viral/autoimmune labyrinthitis. My caloric testing was positive. I have had mild dizziness (no true vertigo) for 4 weeks. All other tests (MRI, chem 18, TFT's, 24-hour urine for amines, CBC, etc.) have been negative.

Is there any literature that would support his treatment plan?

Thank you.

Reply: --------------------------

The most commonly recommended management of labyrinthitis or vestibular neuronitis is bedrest, fluids, selective vestibular sedatives, and anti-emetics if necessary. I am aware of a recent report suggesting a possible benefit for methylprednisolone compared to placebo in the treatment of acute vestibulopathy:

Ariyasu L, Byl F, Sprague M, Adour K: The Beneficial Effect of Methylprednisolone in Acute Vestibular Vertigo. Arch Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 116:700-703, 1990

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Steve Dankle, MD
Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
Milwaukee, Wis

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