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Irreversible sensorineural hearing loss as a result of azithromycin ototoxicity. A case report
Abstract:
Azithromycin, an azalide antibiotic, rarely causes ototoxicity. According to the few reports in existence, azithromycin-induced ototoxicity occurred following prolonged high-dose therapy in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome and resulted in a reversible sensorineural hearing loss. We present a case of irreversible sensorineural hearing loss due to azithromycin ototoxicity in an otherwise healthy woman following low-dose exposure to azithromycin.
Insights
Azithromycin rarely causes hearing loss, usually reversible in immunocompromised patients. This case shows irreversible hearing loss in a healthy woman after low-dose azithromycin exposure.
Area of Science:
- Ototoxicity research
- Antibiotic-induced adverse effects
- Clinical case studies
Background:
- Azithromycin, an azalide antibiotic, is rarely associated with ototoxicity.
- Previous reports link azithromycin ototoxicity to prolonged, high-dose therapy in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
- Reported cases typically involve reversible sensorineural hearing loss.
Observation:
- A case of sensorineural hearing loss is presented in an otherwise healthy woman.
- The patient experienced hearing loss following low-dose azithromycin exposure.
- This contrasts with previous reports of ototoxicity in patients with specific underlying conditions and higher doses.
Findings:
- The patient developed irreversible sensorineural hearing loss.
- This case demonstrates a rare instance of azithromycin-induced ototoxicity.
- The hearing loss occurred despite low-dose exposure and absence of predisposing conditions.
Implications:
- Azithromycin ototoxicity may occur in healthy individuals even with low-dose exposure.
- This finding expands the known risk profile for azithromycin-induced hearing loss.
- Clinicians should consider azithromycin ototoxicity in patients presenting with sensorineural hearing loss, regardless of dose or underlying health status.
