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Relationship between hearing function and myasthenia gravis: A contemporary review
Massimo Ralli1, Giancarlo Altissimi2, A Di Stadio3
11 Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.
The Journal of International Medical Research
|November 12, 2016
Summary
Myasthenia gravis (MG) can cause hearing loss by affecting acetylcholine receptors on outer hair cells. Monitoring hearing function is crucial for diagnosing and managing MG patients.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Otolaryngology
- Immunology
Background:
- Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disorder affecting neuromuscular junctions.
- Evidence suggests a link between MG and auditory system dysfunction.
- Acetylcholine receptors (AChRs) on outer hair cells (OHCs) are implicated in this relationship.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the connection between myasthenia gravis and hearing impairment.
- To highlight the role of acetylcholine receptors in outer hair cells in MG-related hearing dysfunction.
- To emphasize the importance of audiological monitoring in MG patients.
Main Methods:
- Review of pathophysiological studies on MG and hearing function.
- Analysis of diagnostic tools like the stapedial reflex decay test.
- Evaluation of otoacoustic emissions (OAEs) for monitoring OHC functionality.
Main Results:
- Autoantibodies against AChRs in MG patients lead to progressive loss of AChRs on OHCs, impairing their electromotility.
- Stapedial reflex decay tests can be altered in MG, serving as a diagnostic and monitoring aid.
- Otoacoustic emissions effectively detect subclinical hearing alterations in MG patients before clinical onset.
Conclusions:
- A multidisciplinary approach is essential for understanding and managing MG-associated hearing dysfunction.
- Otolaryngologists must consider hearing status in MG patients.
- Regular audiological monitoring is vital for tracking hearing alterations in individuals with MG.
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