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Updated: Jun 19, 2026

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Neuro-rehabilitation Approach for Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Published on: January 25, 2016
Burow's solution-induced acute sensorineural hearing loss: report of two cases
Naoki Oishi1, Yasuhiro Inoue, Hideyuki Saito
1Department of Otolaryngology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan. o-ishi@mub.biglobe.ne.jp
Auris, Nasus, Larynx
|October 24, 2009
Summary
Burow's solution may cause ototoxicity, leading to acute sensorineural hearing loss in patients with ear perforations. Healthcare providers should consider this risk when treating otitis media with this solution.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Otitis media is a common condition often treated with topical solutions.
- Burow's solution is an acidic solution used for its astringent properties.
Observation:
- Two cases of acute sensorineural hearing loss were observed after administering 8% Burow's solution (pH 2.93).
- Patients had tympanic membrane perforations and serous discharge prior to treatment.
Findings:
- The hearing loss was acute and sensorineural in nature.
- Recovery was nearly complete within weeks, with residual high-tone deficits.
- This suggests potential ototoxicity of Burow's solution.
Implications:
- Burow's solution ototoxicity is a potential risk, especially with tympanic membrane perforations.
- Clinical use of Burow's solution in otitis media requires careful consideration of ototoxicity.
- Further research into the safety profile of Burow's solution in otologic conditions is warranted.

