Hearing function after intratympanic application of gadolinium-based contrast agent: A long-term evaluation

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Diagnostic Imaging
• Audiology

Background:

• Ménière's disease diagnosis can be challenging.
• Intratympanic gadolinium-based contrast agents are used for enhanced MRI scans.
• The long-term effects of this agent on hearing require evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the long-term impact of intratympanic gadolinium-based contrast agent on hearing.
• To evaluate the safety of this diagnostic method for patients with possible Ménière's disease.

Main Methods:

• Prospective observational cohort study.
• 17 patients with possible Ménière's disease and normal baseline hearing underwent intratympanic gadolinium injection.
• Audiological evaluations were performed before injection and at least 6 months post-injection.

Main Results:

• No significant long-term difference in pure-tone average hearing thresholds was observed.
• No statistical difference at individual frequencies compared to baseline.
• No evidence of ototoxicity in the injected ears.

Conclusions:

• Intratympanic gadolinium-based contrast agent application is a safe method regarding auditory function.
• This agent is a helpful tool in diagnosing Ménière's disease without compromising hearing.
• Long-term hearing assessment confirms the safety profile of this diagnostic approach.