Distribution and density of subepithelial collagen in the endolymphatic sac in patients with Meniere's disease.

Our understanding of the histology and histopathology of the endolymphatic sac (ELS) is based on both temporal bone preparations and biopsy material. The current study will provide the basis for an ultrastructural analysis of the spectrum of pathologic changes observed in biopsy specimens from patients with endolymphatic hydrops in Meniere's disease. Emphasis is placed on the distribution and density of subepithelial collagen in the ELS of normal and hydropic patients. This study will be the light microscopic basis for an ultrastructural clinicopathologic correlation of inner ear tissue from the ELS with the clinical stage of the disease.