General differences between otolithiasis and Ménière’s disease

  Otolithic membrane is a gelatinous membrane containing calcium carbonate particles that covers the surface of the ellipsoidal and balloon capsular spots, in which the calcium carbonate particles are called otoliths. When the head is struck by an external force, the otolith can be dislodged from its original position and roll into the semicircular canal, called otolith dislocation. When the head is moved, the otolith will cause abnormal flow of lymphatic fluid in the semicircular canal and produce vertigo, but it comes briefly, often not more than a minute, especially when the head is turned to a certain direction. Meniere’s syndrome is endolymphatic effusion, which shows vertigo in addition to tinnitus, deafness, and ear rise.  The medication and symptomatic treatment for both are similar, but there is a special treatment for otoliths called manual repositioning, in which the patient turns his body in bed according to the doctor’s instructions, without incision and pain, and the treatment can be completed in about 10 minutes.