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Updated: Jun 19, 2026
09:44
Neuro-rehabilitation Approach for Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Published on: January 25, 2016
Sweet's disease and profound, bilateral, sensorineural hearing loss
1Department of Otolaryngology, Westmead Hospital, University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
The Journal of Laryngology and Otology
|October 21, 2009
Summary
Sweet's disease can cause rapid, profound sensorineural hearing loss. Cochlear implantation offers a successful treatment option when immunosuppressive therapy for this immune-mediated condition fails.
Area of Science:
- Oto-immunology
- Otolaryngology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Sweet's disease, an inflammatory dermatosis, is rarely associated with sensorineural hearing loss.
- Progressive, bilateral sensorineural hearing loss can complicate autoimmune conditions.
Observation:
- A case of Sweet's disease presented with acute, severe hearing impairment.
- Clinical presentation mimicked immune-mediated inner ear disease, complicating diagnosis.
Findings:
- Diagnosis was challenging due to the lack of specific biomarkers for immune-mediated inner ear disease.
- The patient did not respond to immunosuppressive treatments for the hearing loss.
Implications:
- Sensorineural hearing loss in Sweet's disease may stem from immunological factors.
- Cochlear implantation provides a viable alternative for hearing restoration when medical treatments are ineffective.
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