Mal de Debarquement Syndrome: A Case Presentation of a Vestibular Enigma

TL;DR

This paper presents a case of Mal de Debarquement Syndrome, a rare and often misdiagnosed vestibular disorder that causes persistent rocking sensations after motion exposure.

Contribution

The paper highlights the underrecognized nature of MdD and presents a case demonstrating its management and impact.

Findings

The patient experienced symptom relief with clonazepam, consistent with current treatment approaches.

MdD is associated with significant economic and psychological burdens.

Management may involve SSRIs, transcranial magnetic stimulation, or vestibular rehabilitation.

Abstract

Mal de Debarquement (MdD) is a rare vestibular disorder characterized by a rocking or swaying sensation following passive motion exposure, such as boat or airplane travel. The etiology and pathogenesis are unknown. Due to a lack of clinical awareness and research, it is underrecognized and misdiagnosed. We present a case of a 37-year-old male with classic MdD symptoms following an amusement park boat ride. Along with normal evaluations, including neurological and vestibular tests, the patient experienced relief with clonazepam, aligned with current management strategies. MdD's impact extends beyond physical symptoms, with studies showing significant economic and psychological burdens associated with the condition. Therefore, it is important to recognize MdD as a missed diagnosis that can potentially result in prolonged and debilitating symptoms that may require management with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), transcranial magnetic stimulation, or vestibular rehabilitation.

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