Bilateral hearing loss after dichloromethane poisoning: a case report
Roberta Bonfiglioli1, Lucio Carnevali, Matteo Di Lello
1Occupational Health Unit, Sant'Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine
|October 3, 2013
Summary
Dichloromethane (a common solvent) can cause hearing loss after acute exposure. This case study shows hearing loss resolved with hyperbaric oxygen therapy, suggesting a link between solvent toxicity and auditory damage.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Occupational Health
- Auditory Medicine
Background:
- Dichloromethane is a prevalent organic solvent with known central nervous system toxicity.
- Occupational exposure is common, but its effects on the peripheral nervous system, including hearing, are not well-established.
- The neurotoxic mechanisms of dichloromethane, potentially involving its metabolite carbon monoxide, are a subject of ongoing research.
Observation:
- A 37-year-old woman experienced sudden bilateral hearing loss after accidental dichloromethane exposure.
- The hearing impairment developed in the days following the incident.
- Symptoms of hypoacusis (hearing loss) were observed.
Findings:
- The patient's hearing loss showed significant improvement and regression after 25 days of hyperbaric oxygen treatment.
- This case presents the first reported instance of sudden hearing loss linked to acute dichloromethane exposure.
- The findings suggest dichloromethane may exert a direct toxic effect on the auditory system.
Implications:
- This study highlights a potential, previously unreported, adverse effect of dichloromethane on human hearing.
- It underscores the importance of considering solvent toxicity in cases of unexplained auditory dysfunction.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms of dichloromethane-induced ototoxicity and inform occupational safety guidelines.
