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Sensorineural hearing loss: a reversible effect of valproic acid
1Department of Medicine (Neurology), Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC.
Neurology
|December 1, 1990
Summary
Valproate (VPA) may cause hearing loss in older adults. Discontinuing VPA improved hearing in two elderly patients with complex partial seizures, suggesting a link between VPA and sensorineural hearing loss.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Otolaryngology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Valproate (VPA) is a widely used antiepileptic drug.
- Complex partial seizures are a common form of epilepsy.
- Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) is a significant cause of hearing impairment, particularly in the elderly.
Observation:
- Two patients over 70 years old, treated with VPA for complex partial seizures, developed SNHL.
- Hearing improvement was noted after VPA discontinuation for reasons unrelated to audiology.
- Audiometric evaluation confirmed hearing recovery post-VPA cessation.
Findings:
- The cases suggest a potential causal relationship between VPA use and the development of SNHL.
- VPA-induced SNHL may be more likely in individuals with pre-existing presbycusis (age-related hearing loss).
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider VPA as a potential cause of SNHL in elderly patients.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanism of VPA-induced ototoxicity.
- Monitoring hearing function in patients on long-term VPA therapy may be beneficial.