Treatment Options in Mal de Débarquement Syndrome: A Scoping Review

Otol Neurotol. 2023 Apr 1;44(4):e197-e203. doi: 10.1097/MAO.0000000000003832. Epub 2023 Feb 15.

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study was to review current treatment options available for mal de debarquement syndrome (MdDS).

Data sources: Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Review guidelines, we performed systematic search queries for MdDS-related texts. Documents must have been in the English language, and the time frame was all documents up until May 23, 2022.

Methods: Studies were selected if they were published in a peer-reviewed journal and if one of the primary objectives was the assessment of treatment for MdDS. The quality and validity of all documents were assessed by two independent co-investigators. Conflicts were resolved by a third investigator.

Results: One hundred ninety-four unique references were identified and underwent review. Ninety-seven were selected for full-text review, and 32 studies were ultimately included. Data were stratified by treatment methodology for MdDS. The categories used were pharmacologic, physical therapy, and neuromodulating stimulation.

Conclusions: Improvement in patient-reported outcomes is reported with several treatment modalities including specific protocols of vestibular rehabilitation, neuromodulating stimulation, and pharmacologic management with several types of neurotropic drugs.

Publication types

  • Systematic Review
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Neurotransmitter Agents / therapeutic use
  • Physical Therapy Modalities
  • Rehabilitation
  • Travel-Related Illness*

Substances

  • Neurotransmitter Agents

Supplementary concepts

  • Mal de debarquement