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Tinnitus and brain MRI findings in Japanese elderly
Saiko Sugiura1, Yasue Uchida, Tsutomu Nakashima
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Obu, Aichi, Japan. saiko@ncgg.go.jp
Conclusion:
There is evidence of an inverse association between cerebral infarction and tinnitus in this study. The effects of cerebral infarction on tinnitus could be explained by a neurophysiological model of tinnitus.
Objectives:
We examined the relationship between tinnitus and brain MRI findings including cerebral infarction, brain atrophy, ventricular dilatation, and white matter lesions.
Subjects And Methods:
This was a cross-sectional population-based study of 2193 subjects aged 41-82 years living in Aichi prefecture, Japan. Detailed questionnaires, pure tone audiometry, and brain MRI were performed.
Results:
After adjusting for potential confounders in a multiple logistic analysis, cerebral infarction was inversely associated with tinnitus (odds ratio (OR)=0.649, 95% confidence interval (CI)=0.477-0.884). Cerebral infarctions of the basal ganglia (OR=0.542), thalamus (OR=0.441), and pons (OR=0.319) were especially associated with tinnitus. Brain atrophy, ventricular dilatation, and white matter lesions had no significant effects on the prevalence of tinnitus.
Insights
This study found that cerebral infarction, a type of stroke, is linked to a lower likelihood of experiencing tinnitus (ringing in the ears). Specific brain regions affected by infarction showed a stronger association with reduced tinnitus prevalence.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Otolaryngology
- Radiology
Background:
- Tinnitus, the perception of sound without external source, affects millions globally.
- The underlying pathophysiology of tinnitus is complex and not fully understood.
- Cerebral infarction (stroke) impacts brain structure and function, potentially influencing sensory perception.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between tinnitus and various brain MRI findings.
- Specifically examining cerebral infarction, brain atrophy, ventricular dilatation, and white matter lesions.
- To explore potential neurophysiological links between brain structure and tinnitus.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional population-based study in Aichi prefecture, Japan.
- Involved 2193 participants aged 41-82 years.
- Utilized questionnaires, audiometry, and brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).
Main Results:
- Cerebral infarction showed a significant inverse association with tinnitus (OR=0.649).
- Infarctions in the basal ganglia, thalamus, and pons were particularly linked to lower tinnitus prevalence.
- Brain atrophy, ventricular dilatation, and white matter lesions did not significantly affect tinnitus prevalence.
Conclusions:
- Cerebral infarction is inversely associated with tinnitus.
- This relationship may be explained by neurophysiological mechanisms.
- Specific brain regions affected by stroke play a role in tinnitus occurrence.
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