Proposal of a Theoretically Feasible Method to Perform Perilymph Sampling in Clinical Settings

Abstract

The ability to analyze perilymph could allow inner ear pathologies to be studied. However, today, perilymph sampling is only performed for research purposes because of the risk of negative outcomes such as hearing loss or balance disorders. This paper aims to analyze the current literature on perilymph sampling and propose a method to collect perilymph in clinical settings. The published literature on perilymph sampling and its analyses was screened, and the results were analyzed and discussed in this mini review. Also, articles that discussed microneedle technology were reviewed and included in the analysis of the data. Based on the results of this review, we would like to propose a feasible technique to perform perilymph sampling in clinical settings. A total of eight studies analyzing perilymph were identified; data on proteomic, metabolomic and miRNA features present within human perilymph were collected and described. Two articles describing the use and auditory outcomes post microneedle drug injection into the inner ear were identified. Based on the methods for perilymph sampling described in humans and the recent innovations introduced by the use of microneedles, we suggested a feasible method to collect perilymph in the outpatient setting. The analysis of perilymph undoubtedly represents a valid instrument to fully understand inner ear diseases. A combination of traditional and innovative techniques, such as gaining access to the round window through the transcanalar approach using micro-endoscopes and microneedles to perform sampling, might simplify the sampling procedure and make it practicable in a clinical setting.

Keywords

• perilymph
• clinical diagnosis
• endoscopy
• inner ear disease