Meniere's Disease: Insights from an Italian Nationwide Survey

The aim of the present study was to obtain data from a large community sample of patients with Meniere's disease (MD) in Italy through a web-based nationwide survey. Demographic, clinical, and epidemiological features of MD among members of the Italian Association of Meniere's Disease (AMMI) were collected through a web-based survey. The questionnaire was posted on the AMMI website between 01/SEP/2021 and 31/OCT/2021. A total of 520 patients (374 F, 146 M) with MD were included. The age at interview (average +/- standard deviation, SD) was 51.4 +/- 10.9 years, with a disease duration of 9.9 +/- 9.8 years. Eighty percent of cases were unilateral. No patients reported neurocognitive disorders or Parkinson's disease. A positive family history of MD was reported in 13% of participants, while a history of allergic diseases was reported in 33%. Comorbid thyroid disorders were present in 25% of participants, and 28% used betahistine as the main treatment. To our knowledge, this is the first study that has investigated the epidemiology and current patterns of care of MD in Italy, using an anonymous survey directly sent to patients, thus implying their active participation. We hope that future studies will support the utilization of web-based surveys to address the unmet needs in the management of patients with MD.

Automated summary

The aim of this study was to gather data on a large community sample of Meniere's disease (MD) patients in Italy through a web-based nationwide survey. Demographic, clinical, and epidemiological information was collected from members of the Italian Association of Meniere's Disease (AMMI) using an online questionnaire. The study included 520 patients, with an average age of 51.4 years and a disease duration of 9.9 years. The findings provide valuable insights into the epidemiology and current treatment patterns of MD in Italy and highlight the potential utility of web-based surveys in improving patient management.