Is there an overlap between sudden neurosensorial hearing loss and cardiovascular risk factors?

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Vascular Medicine
• Genetics

Background:

• Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSHL) is increasingly recognized as a potential indicator of underlying vascular dysfunction.
• Investigating both genetic and acquired risk factors is crucial for understanding SSHL etiology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the association between genetic thrombophilia polymorphisms and SSHL.
• To assess acquired vascular risk factors, including personal and familial history, in patients with SSHL.

Main Methods:

• Genetic analysis for prothrombin and factor V Leiden polymorphisms in 99 SSHL patients.
• Evaluation of cardiovascular events, brain stroke, antiphospholipid syndrome, and lipidemia profiles.
• Detailed assessment of personal and familial history of vascular disorders.

Main Results:

• No statistically significant differences in thrombophilia polymorphisms were found between SSHL patients and controls.
• Positive trends observed for lipidemia profiles and personal/familial history of vascular disorders in SSHL patients.
• Lack of clear associations between SSHL and common vascular risk factors.

Conclusions:

• The multicausal nature of SSHL is suggested due to the absence of strong links with specific vascular risk factors.
• Preliminary evidence indicates potential vascular involvement in SSHL.
• Further long-term prospective studies are required to establish SSHL as an early vascular symptom.