Histopathological examination of a temporal bone from a patient who died with long-standing Meniere's disease would be expected to show:

• A Collapse of Reissner's membrane with obliteration of the scala media
• B Gross distension of Reissner's membrane with dilatation of the scala media and saccule ✓
• C Proliferation of fibrous tissue within the scala tympani
• D Degeneration confined exclusively to the organ of Corti with a normal membranous labyrinth

Explanation

Endolymphatic hydrops produces marked distension of Reissner's membrane, which herniates into the scala vestibuli, and dilatation of the saccule, which may contact the stapes footplate. The cochlear duct and saccule enlarge while the utricle and semicircular canals are relatively spared. Fibrous obliteration of the scala tympani describes labyrinthitis ossificans, seen after meningitis. Collapse of the scala media is the opposite of hydrops, and the pathology extends well beyond the organ of Corti.

Reference: Cummings Otolaryngology: Head and Neck Surgery, 7th ed.

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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.