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The potential dysfunction of otolith organs in patients after mumps infection

Yu-Juan Zhou1,2,3, Jing Yu1,2,3, Yong-Zhen Wu1,2,3

  • 1Department of Otology and Skull Base Surgery, Eye Ear Nose & Throat Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.

Plos One
|July 27, 2017
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Mumps can cause profound hearing loss and damage to the otolith organs. Early detection and intervention are crucial for managing hearing impairment and vestibular dysfunction following mumps infection.

Area of Science:

  • Otolaryngology
  • Neurology
  • Virology

Background:

  • Mumps virus infection is a known cause of sensorineural hearing loss.
  • The impact of mumps on the vestibular system, specifically otolith organ function, requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To examine the correlation between mumps infection and the severity of hearing impairment.
  • To assess the extent of otolith organ damage in patients with post-mumps hearing loss.

Main Methods:

  • Audiometric and vestibular evoked myogenic potential (VEMP) tests were used to evaluate hearing and otolith function.
  • 27 patients with unilateral hearing impairment post-mumps were analyzed.
  • Statistical analysis was performed using Stata 13.0.

Main Results:

  • VEMP thresholds were significantly higher in affected ears compared to unaffected ears (p=0.000 for cVEMP, p=0.001 for oVEMP).
  • Affected ears with hearing impairment for ≤10 years showed lower mean cVEMP and oVEMP thresholds than those with impairment >10 years (p=0.009 and p=0.004).

Conclusions:

  • Mumps-induced deafness is typically profound and permanent, suggesting severe cochlear damage.
  • Otolith organ function is impaired following mumps, with potential for secondary neural pathway damage over time.

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