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Conversion disorder in a child presenting as sudden sensorineural hearing loss
Brian W Rotenberg1, Melania Makhija, Blake C Papsin
1Department of Otolaryngology, The Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, Ont., Canada M5G 1X8.
International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology
|June 21, 2005
Summary
Pseudohypoacusis, a form of conversion disorder, can cause hearing loss without organic disease. This case highlights its occurrence after head trauma, with spontaneous recovery.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Otolaryngology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Conversion disorder can manifest as functional neurological symptoms.
- Pseudohypoacusis is a rare form of conversion disorder presenting as hearing loss without organic pathology.
Observation:
- An 11-year-old boy experienced unilateral hearing loss following mild head trauma.
- Audiometry indicated severe sensorineural hearing loss, yet CT scans were normal.
- The patient had a family history of conversion disorder and was under emotional stress.
Findings:
- Hearing loss resolved spontaneously after a second minor head injury.
- The case demonstrates a psychogenic etiology for sensorineural hearing loss.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider pseudohypoacusis in cases of unexplained hearing loss, even with a history of trauma.
- Psychological factors and conversion disorder should be evaluated in audiological assessments.