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Sensorineural hearing loss associated with Kawasaki disease
R P Sundel1, J W Newburger, T McGill
1Department of Medicine, Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts.
The Journal of Pediatrics
|September 1, 1990
Summary
Sensorineural hearing loss can occur with Kawasaki disease in children. Early screening is recommended for affected children, as hearing deficits may persist despite treatment.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Otolaryngology
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Kawasaki disease is a critical childhood illness.
- Auditory complications are not widely recognized.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report sensorineural hearing loss in children with Kawasaki disease.
- To assess the potential link between Kawasaki disease and hearing impairment.
Main Methods:
- Case series of five children diagnosed with Kawasaki disease.
- Audiological evaluation and clinical follow-up.
- Exclusion of other causes for hearing loss.
Main Results:
- Five children developed sensorineural hearing loss during acute Kawasaki disease.
- Hearing deficits ranged from mild to profound and bilateral.
- Four children had persistent hearing loss despite varied treatments.
Conclusions:
- Auditory system involvement is a potential complication of Kawasaki disease.
- Screening for hearing loss in Kawasaki disease patients is advisable.
- Further research into the pathophysiology and management is warranted.