Which diagnosis is suggested by a 52-year-old female with episodes of dizziness, tinnitus, and hearing loss lasting several hours?

The diagnosis of Ménière's syndrome is suggested in this case due to the specific combination of symptoms: episodes of dizziness (vertigo), tinnitus, and hearing loss that last for several hours. Ménière's syndrome is characterized by recurrent episodes that can last from 20 minutes to several hours, often with the patient experiencing a fluctuating hearing loss and a sensation of fullness in the ear. The episodes of vertigo in this condition are typically severe and can lead to nausea and imbalance.

In Ménière's syndrome, the underlying issue is thought to be related to abnormal fluid dynamics in the inner ear, leading to increased pressure in the cochlea and vestibular system. This clinical presentation aligns well with the patient's age and symptoms, making it a strong fit for the diagnosis.

The other options provided do not encompass all the symptoms in a way that fits the known pattern of Ménière's syndrome. For instance, acute labyrinthitis would more commonly present with continuous vertigo and hearing loss due to infection, and positional vertigo is typically triggered by changes in head position rather than the episodes described. Acoustic neuroma, while it can cause some similar symptoms, usually presents more insidiously and with progressive hearing loss rather than the episodic