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[Relationships between ankylosing spondylitis and ear disease]
1Department of Otorhinolaryngoloy, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Beijing 100035, China.
Zhonghua Er Bi Yan Hou Ke Za Zhi
|May 29, 2003
Summary
Patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) frequently experience sensorineural hearing loss, especially in high frequencies. This hearing impairment is linked to immunological changes, suggesting it
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Otolaryngology
- Immunology
Context:
- Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease primarily affecting the spine.
- Hearing loss is not a commonly recognized symptom of AS.
- Understanding the audiological profile in AS patients is crucial for comprehensive patient care.
Purpose:
- To investigate the prevalence and characteristics of hearing loss in patients diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis.
- To correlate audiological findings with immunological markers in AS patients.
Summary:
- A study of 34 ankylosing spondylitis patients revealed that 60.3% had hearing loss, predominantly sensorineural and affecting high frequencies.
- Immunological examinations showed positive HLA-B27 and increased C-reactive protein in most patients, with some having positive autoantibodies against the inner ear.
- Auditory brainstem responses were mostly normal, except in one case of severe hearing loss.
Impact:
- Findings suggest that sensorineural hearing loss is a significant audiological manifestation in ankylosing spondylitis.
- The hearing loss appears to be associated with systemic autoimmune processes.
- Regular hearing assessments are recommended for early detection and management in AS patients.