Havana syndrome: new recommendations and enrollment criteria for a shared study of possible cases.

Abstract

Background: From November 2016 to the summer of 2021, some U.S. diplomats and their family members residing in Havana and other locations including China, Russia, Colombia, Switzerland, and France reported the sudden onset of auditory, vestibular, and neurological symptoms. Methods: This study, through a review of the scientific literature, proposes the definition of criteria for proper enrollment of patients with possible diagnosis of "Havana Syndrome". Results: In view of the increasing number of cases, their widespread geographic distribution, and the lack of certainty regarding the etiopathogenesis, it is essential to propose a strategy for sharing case histories. Conclusions: A correct enrollment of patients is crucial since specialists can then disclose new strategies for the study of case histories and for a clear definition of the diagnosis. This way it will be possible to have a wide discussion of clinical and epidemiological results among specialists of different medical, engineering and intelligence disciplines.