[The rhinogenic deafness and SPA therapy: clinical-experimental study]

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Pediatric Medicine
• Therapeutic Spa Treatments

Background:

• Sulfur SPA inhalation therapy is recognized for its anti-inflammatory, mucolytic, and trophic effects in chronic respiratory and otolaryngologic inflammatory diseases.
• While endotracheal ventilation has shown success, the efficacy of the Politzer method with sulfur water for rhinogenic deafness in children remains less conclusive.
• Chronic inflammatory conditions can lead to Eustachian tube dysfunction and rhinogenic deafness in pediatric populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of aerosolized sulfur mineral water combined with the Politzer method in children diagnosed with rhinogenic deafness.
• To assess the impact of this therapy on chronic inflammatory processes contributing to rhinogenic deafness.
• To analyze improvements in middle ear function and Eustachian tube patency following the therapeutic intervention.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 23 pediatric patients (ages 3-14) with chronic catarrhal otitis, rhino-pharyngitis, or adenoiditis underwent 12 consecutive days of sulfur SPA inhalation therapy (aerosol + Politzer method).
• Middle ear function was assessed using impedance audiometry, and tolerability was evaluated before and after the SPA cycle.
• Patients were monitored for any adverse reactions throughout the treatment period.

Main Results:

• A significant increase in Type A impedance curves (normal tympanic ventilation) was observed, rising from 13% pre-therapy to 57% post-therapy.
• Pathological Type B and C impedance curves decreased from 87% to 43%, indicating improved middle ear function.
• A statistically significant increase in compliance was noted for patients with Type B and C curves (p < 0.05), with no adverse reactions reported.

Conclusions:

• The study confirms that sulfur SPA inhalation treatment, utilizing aerosol and the Politzer method, effectively improves middle ear function in children with rhinogenic deafness.
• The therapeutic approach demonstrated good local and systemic tolerability, aligning with existing literature on sulfur therapy benefits.
• This treatment offers a safe and effective option for managing chronic inflammatory conditions affecting the middle ear in pediatric patients.