LXXXI Occurrence of Episodic Vertigo and Hearing Loss in Families

One hundred and four years have elapsed since Prosper Meniere first suggested the labyrinth as the site of the disease that bears his name. Myriad theories have been advanced to explain the patho­ genesis and the basic physiologic mechanism that causes this dysfunc­ tion. Nevertheless, the exact etiology of endolymphatic hydrops remains an enigma. Allergy, autonomic dysfunction, avitaminosis, focal infection, disorder of fluid and electrolye balance, and vascular insufficiency have all been suggested.' When taken separately, all appear to be inadequate. Furthermore, endolymphatic hydrops has been seen in several other diseases. Among them are congenital lues^ and serous labyrinthitis.*