Sensorineural hearing loss after magnetic resonance imaging

Area of Science:

• Audiology
• Medical Imaging
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) procedures generate significant acoustic noise.
• This noise poses a potential risk for hearing impairment in patients and operators.
• Previous reports indicate varied patterns of MRI-related hearing issues, including temporary or permanent, unilateral or bilateral loss, and associated tinnitus.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a specific case of hearing impairment following a brain MRI.
• To highlight the potential for sensorineural hearing loss as an adverse effect of MRI exposure.
• To document the clinical course and outcome of a patient experiencing hearing loss post-MRI.

Main Methods:

• A case report of a healthy patient who underwent a brain MRI scan.
• Clinical assessment of hearing function and associated symptoms (tinnitus).
• Follow-up evaluation of the patient's hearing status at 3 months post-procedure.

Main Results:

• The patient experienced bilateral sensorineural hearing loss after the brain MRI.
• The hearing loss was accompanied by tinnitus.
• No improvement in hearing or tinnitus was observed at the 3-month follow-up.

Conclusions:

• Brain MRI can lead to significant bilateral sensorineural hearing loss and tinnitus.
• The hearing impairment may be persistent, as demonstrated by the lack of improvement over 3 months.
• Healthcare providers should be aware of the ototoxic potential of MRI noise and counsel patients accordingly.