Mal de Debarquement Syndrome: A Rare Entity-A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Case Reports in Otolaryngology
Veronica NwagwuJerome Okudo

Abstract

Mal de Debarquement Syndrome (MDS) is a rare, understudied, underdiagnosed, and self-limiting condition. Etiology and incidence are unknown. It is characterized by abnormal sensation of motion/balance reported after travel by air, land, and sea; being reexposed to motion/activity relieves it. Symptoms may last from minutes to years. Workup though required reveals no findings; it is a diagnosis of exclusion. While no efficacious treatment exists, amitriptyline and benzodiazepines as well as supportive therapy have proved to be useful. We have described a 40-year-old Caucasian female who presented for the evaluation of persistent rocking and swaying sensation after a ship cruise which lasted for one week. Patient was treated with benzodiazepines after extensive workup and is now stable. A high index of suspicion is required to make a diagnosis.

References

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Citations

Nov 13, 2015·Journal of Neurology·Angelique Van OmbergenFloris L Wuyts
Mar 12, 2021·Journal of Osteopathic Medicine·Kwasi K AmpomahDaniel Burwell

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Methods Mentioned

BETA
MDS

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