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:

• Neurological examination              

• ENG test (electronystagmography)

• Rotary chair test

• Caloric Stimulation

• Audiogram

• Blood tests (CBC, blood glucose, vitamin B12)

• Blood tests for autoimmune disorders that may involve the ear 

  • ANA (anti-nuclear antibodies)

  •  TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone)

  • anti-microsomal antibodies

  • anti-cochlear antibodies

  • HLA-DR determinations                                    

• MRI of the brain and/or MRA of the brain stem and neck

• ECOG - if hearing is abnormal

• Posturography

• High resolution cat scan to rule out small fistulas or canal dehiscence syndromes, especially if history of barotrauma

• Optokinetic after-nystagmus:  refer to section 7 of 9 in emedicine vestibuloocular testing paradigms

This MdDS Balance Disorder Foundation site is designed for those suffering from MdDS (Mal de Debarquement Syndrome).   If you have been diagnosed or suspect that you have MdDS, 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's like to live with this rare balance disorder.  Our members are welcomed from many countries, so feel free to contact us.

The MdDS Balance Disorder Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit foundation dedicated to promoting awareness of Mal de Debarquement Syndrome and seeking treatments and a cure for people suffering from this disorder.

Copyright  © 2006-2008   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. The MdDS Balance Disorder Foundation recommends consultation with your doctor or other health care provider.
Page last modified on June 8, 2008. For comments, contact the Web Editor