Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 9, 2026
09:44
Neuro-rehabilitation Approach for Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Published on: January 25, 2016
Asymmetric sensorineural hearing loss in a community-based population
S L Urben1, M S Benninger, N D Gibbens
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI, USA.
Summary
Asymmetric sensorineural hearing loss (ASNHL) can indicate retrocochlear pathology. This study found acoustic neuromas in 2.1% of ASNHL patients, suggesting a need for cost-effective diagnostic guidelines.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Audiology
- Neurology
Background:
- Asymmetric sensorineural hearing loss (ASNHL) is common but may signal retrocochlear pathology.
- The incidence of acoustic neuroma (AN) in ASNHL patients is not well-established.
- Healthcare resource limitations necessitate cost-effective evaluation guidelines for ASNHL.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of retrocochlear pathology, specifically AN, in patients with ASNHL.
- To evaluate the diagnostic yield and cost-effectiveness of current evaluation methods.
- To propose cost-containment strategies for ASNHL patient management.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of 325 ASNHL patients over 5 years (1990-1994).
- Analysis of demographic, historic, audiologic data, Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) tests, and radiologic studies.
- Calculation of AN prevalence and diagnostic cost per case.
Main Results:
- ASNHL was identified in 325 patients.
- Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) tests were normal in 92% of 179 patients evaluated.
- Acoustic neuromas (AN) were diagnosed in 4 out of 193 patients (2.1% prevalence), with a diagnostic cost exceeding $41,000 per AN.
Conclusions:
- Retrocochlear pathology, including AN, is present in a small percentage of ASNHL patients.
- Current diagnostic approaches may be costly.
- A cost-containment strategy for evaluating and managing ASNHL patients is proposed.
