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Effects of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors on auditory processing: case study
K V Gopal1, D M Daly, R G Daniloff
1Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences, University of North Texas, Denton 76203, USA.
Journal of the American Academy of Audiology
|September 30, 2000
Summary
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like fluvoxamine and fluoxetine improved auditory processing and reduced hypersensitivity in a patient. Medication withdrawal temporarily worsened central auditory processing abilities.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Auditory Neuroscience
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Hyperacusis and auditory processing deficits can significantly impact quality of life.
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly used to treat depression and anxiety disorders.
Observation:
- A patient presented with auditory hypersensitivity, speech-in-noise difficulties, depression, and sensory sensitivities.
- Symptoms improved with SSRI treatment (fluvoxamine and fluoxetine).
Findings:
- While basic auditory thresholds remained unchanged, central auditory processing, assessed by SCAN-A, improved with SSRI medication.
- Objective measures like transient otoacoustic emissions and auditory brainstem responses showed bilateral changes when unmedicated.
- Speech perception tasks revealed deficits in central processing and vigilance when unmedicated, particularly in identifying consonant-vowel syllables.
Implications:
- SSRI treatment may positively modulate central auditory pathways, not just mood.
- This suggests a potential role for neuromodulatory treatments in managing complex auditory processing disorders.
- Further research is warranted to explore the neurobiological mechanisms underlying SSRI effects on auditory processing.