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Seeking a Diagnosis
Presently, there are no tests that can provide a
definitive diagnosis of Mal de Debarquement. However, your doctor
will probably want to rule out other disorders that may have similar
symptoms. If you are looking for a doctor, please see the list of Health Care Providers who are familiar with the
diagnosis of MdDS.
MdDS
is primarily diagnosed using patient history (such as a recent boat,
air or train travel or other motion experience) and the
elimination of other disorders which may have similar symptoms.
There is no known cure for MdDS and the cause is
unknown. It is common for test results to be entirely normal for
people suffering with MdDS. Because of this, many
patients commonly go undiagnosed or are misdiagnosed. There have
been reports of some successes in alleviation of symptoms
with various treatments.
Consult your physician to determine which tests are best for
you. Tests
used to exclude other disorders may include the following:
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Neurological examination
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ENG test (electronystagmography)
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Rotary chair test
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Caloric Stimulation
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Audiogram
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Blood tests (CBC, blood glucose, vitamin B12)
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Blood tests for autoimmune disorders that may involve
the ear
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ANA (anti-nuclear antibodies)
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TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone)
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anti-microsomal antibodies
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anti-cochlear antibodies
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HLA-DR
determinations
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MRI of the brain and/or MRA of the brain stem and neck
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ECOG - if hearing is abnormal
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Posturography
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High resolution cat scan to rule out small fistulas or
superior canal dehiscence syndromes, especially if history
of barotrauma
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Optokinetic after-nystagmus: refer to
section 7 of 9 in emedicine vestibuloocular testing paradigms
| Informational
Brochure |
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This
site is designed for those suffering from MdDS (Mal de Debarquement
Syndrome) and the health care professionals who treat them.
If
you have been diagnosed or suspect that you have MdDS or Disembarkment
Syndrome, sign up for a free membership at our support site
and review or search the
thousands of messages from those who suffer from MdDS. Here, you will
find caring people who understand what it is like to live with this
rare balance disorder; members are from all over the world. Please join
us to share and learn from others.
The
MdDS Balance Disorder Foundation is an all-volunteer 501(c)(3)
nonprofit PA foundation dedicated to promoting awareness of Mal de
Debarquement Syndrome and seeking treatments and a cure for people
suffering from this disorder.
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| Helpful
Links |
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Copyright
© 2006-2010, MdDS Balance Disorder Foundation, Inc.
All
rights reserved. Unauthorized use prohibited. Copyright materials may
not be reproduced in whole or in part by persons, organizations, or
corporations without the prior written permission of the MdDS Balance
Disorder Foundation. The information contained in this web site is not
a substitute for medical advice or treatment.
Last
modified on June 12, 2010
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