Literature study: Superior semicircular canal syndrome (SSCS)

Abstract

Superior Semicircular Canal Syndrome (SSCS) or Superior Canal Dehiscence Syndrome is a rare abnormality in the medical field in the form of balance disturbance or vertigo caused by loud noises or changes in pressure causing rupture of the roof of the superior semicircular canal. SSCS was first described by Lloyd Minor in 1998 after more than 70 years since Tullio and Hennebert discovered the Tullio phenomenon, a condition in which vertigo or nystagmus is triggered by loud noises, and the Hennebert phenomenon, a condition in which vertigo or nystagmus, is triggered by changes in pressure. The exact prevalence of superior semicircular canal syndrome is not known until now. Estimates of prevalence varied from 0.5–2% of cases in temporal bone studies, to 3–9% of cases in studies performed with CT scans. Cases of SSCS are more common in males than females. Clinical symptoms that appear in SSCS are caused by dehiscence so that patients will complain of autophonia, which the sound produced by their body sounds louder, hyperacusis, tinnitus, vertigo which is triggered by loud noises, and nystagmus. A Careful history, an examination of hearing and balance function, also high-resolution CT scan are needed to establish the diagnose of SSCS. Management can be done conservatively. If the complaints are severe, then operative options can be considered.