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Updated: May 18, 2026

The MODS method for diagnosis of tuberculosis and multidrug resistant tuberculosis
Published on: August 11, 2008
Hearing loss in children treated for multidrug-resistant tuberculosis
James A Seddon1, Stephanie Thee, Kayleen Jacobs
1Desmond Tutu TB Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, South Africa. jseddon@sun.ac.za
Hearing loss is a common side effect in children treated for multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) with injectable drugs. This study found 24% of children experienced hearing loss, with some cases worsening after treatment completion.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Aminoglycosides and polypeptides are crucial for treating multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB).
- These drug classes are known to cause hearing loss as a significant side effect.
- The impact of these treatments on pediatric hearing is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and extent of hearing loss in children undergoing treatment for MDR-TB.
- To identify potential risk factors associated with hearing loss in this pediatric population.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective study was conducted on children under 15 years old treated for MDR-TB with injectable drugs between January 2009 and December 2010.
- Hearing assessments were performed using audiometry and otoacoustic emissions.
- Data on HIV status and TB diagnosis confirmation were collected.
Main Results:
- Out of 94 children included, 23% (24%) experienced hearing loss.
- A culture-confirmed diagnosis of TB was a significant risk factor for hearing loss (OR: 4.12).
- Progression of hearing loss was observed in 64% of children assessed by audiometry after completing injectable drug therapy.
Conclusions:
- Hearing loss is a frequent complication in children treated for MDR-TB.
- The findings underscore the need for alternative treatment options for pediatric MDR-TB to mitigate ototoxicity.
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