Steenerson · Seminars in neurology 2020 · narrative review · n=?

Superior Semicircular Canal Dehiscence Syndrome.

Cited 31 times in the scientific literature.

Level 5 - mechanism / opinion, no new human data

Narrative review without systematic search or original data.

PubMed 31986544 · doi:10.1055/s-0039-3402738 · record verified 2026-08-26

What was done

The authors synthesized clinical knowledge regarding superior semicircular canal dehiscence syndrome (SCDS), reviewing its pathophysiology as a third labyrinthine window, typical clinical presentation, bedside examination techniques (including fixation-suppressed ocular motor testing), confirmatory diagnostic tests, and surgical versus conservative management strategies.

What was found

The abstract reports no quantitative metrics, diagnostic accuracy figures, or treatment outcome numbers. It outlines typical vestibulocochlear features (autophony, sound- or pressure-induced vertigo, chronic disequilibrium), confirmatory diagnostic modalities (audiometry, vestibular evoked myogenic potentials, and computed tomography), and notes that while corrective surgery can be curative, many patients manage conservatively due to mild symptom severity.

Why it matters

The review summarizes the clinical presentation and diagnostic workup of SCDS to aid neurologists and other clinicians in distinguishing this anatomical vestibular disorder from other causes of dizziness.

Limits

This is a narrative review without a systematic search strategy, empirical study design, or primary data. The abstract provides no quantitative data regarding diagnostic sensitivity, specificity, or surgical complication and success rates.

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