Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 4, 2026
09:44
Neuro-rehabilitation Approach for Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Published on: January 25, 2016
Sensorineural hearing loss in sickle cell disease--a prospective study from Oman
Muhammed Hesham Al Okbi1, Salam Alkindi, Rashid K Al Abri
1Department of ENT, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Alkud, Muscat, Oman. al_okbi@hotmail.com
The Laryngoscope
|January 29, 2011
Summary
Sickle cell disease (SCD) patients frequently experience sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL), even when asymptomatic. Regular audiometric screenings are recommended for early detection and management of hearing impairment in these individuals.
Area of Science:
- Audiology
- Hematology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a genetic blood disorder causing vaso-occlusive crises and end-organ damage.
- Neurological complications are common in SCD, and auditory system involvement is a recognized concern.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence and characteristics of hearing loss in Omani patients with SCD.
- To compare hearing thresholds between SCD patients and healthy controls.
Main Methods:
- A prospective case-control study was conducted with 46 SCD patients and 29 age/sex-matched controls.
- Pure tone audiometry was performed on all participants to assess hearing thresholds.
- Informed consent and ethical approval were obtained prior to the study.
Main Results:
- SCD patients exhibited higher average hearing thresholds across all tested frequencies compared to controls.
- Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) was identified in 29.34% of ears tested in SCD patients.
- Hearing loss was more prevalent in the right ears and showed a female predominance among SCD patients.
Conclusions:
- A significant incidence (36.95%) of asymptomatic SNHL was observed in Omani SCD patients.
- Hearing loss severity increased at higher frequencies (2,000-8,000 Hz) in SCD patients.
- Routine audiometric assessment is advised for SCD patients to monitor for hearing loss.
