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Article: Pharmacologic manipulation of the labyrinth with novel and traditional agents delivered to the inner ear. (Original Article).
- Article from:
- Ear, Nose and Throat Journal
- Article date:
- April 1, 2003
- Author:
CopyrightCOPYRIGHT 2003 Vendome Group LLC. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
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Abstract
We describe the methodology and rationale behind the delivery of therapeutic medicines to the inner ear. The inner ear has long been impervious to pharmacologic manipulation. This is most likely the result of a protective mechanism called the blood-labyrinth barrier, whose function closely resembles that of the blood-brain barrier. This protective barrier impedes the clinician's ability to treat inner ear diseases with systemically administered medications. Since 1935, otolaryngologists have attempted to manipulate the inner ear with transtympanically injected medicines. Success has varied widely, but medicinal ablation of vestibular function can be ...