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Neuro-rehabilitation Approach for Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Published on: January 25, 2016
Chiari-I malformation associated with asymmetric sensorineural hearing loss
R A Hendrix1, C K Bacon, A P Sclafani
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia 19104.
The Journal of Otolaryngology
|April 1, 1992
Summary
Chiari-I malformation, a posterior fossa deformity, can cause adult-onset symptoms like hearing loss. This study suggests a link between Chiari-I malformation and isolated asymmetric sensorineural hearing loss.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Otolaryngology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Chiari-I malformation involves cerebellar tonsil herniation through the foramen magnum.
- Symptoms typically manifest in adulthood, including headaches, vertigo, and hearing loss.
Observation:
- A review of 226 patients with asymmetric sensorineural hearing loss identified 32 with retrocochlear pathology.
- Three patients had Chiari-I malformation as their sole identified pathology.
Findings:
- Chiari-I malformation may be associated with isolated asymmetric sensorineural hearing loss.
- This hearing loss could result from chronic traction on the eighth cranial nerve.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering Chiari-I malformation in cases of unexplained asymmetric hearing loss.
- Suggests neuroimaging for patients with isolated asymmetric sensorineural hearing loss to rule out Chiari-I malformation.
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