Cisplatin-Induced Ototoxicity: Effects, Mechanisms and Protection Strategies.

Area of Science:

• Ototoxicology
• Pharmacology
• Oncology

Background:

• Cisplatin is a crucial chemotherapy for solid tumors but causes significant, irreversible hearing loss (ototoxicity).
• Cisplatin-induced ototoxicity is linked to reactive oxygen species generation in the inner ear.
• Existing otoprotective agents often interfere with cisplatin's therapeutic action, limiting systemic use.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review clinical and experimental data on cisplatin ototoxicity.
• To elucidate the mechanisms underlying cisplatin-induced hearing loss.
• To evaluate current and emerging strategies for preventing cisplatin ototoxicity.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of preclinical and clinical studies.
• Analysis of molecular mechanisms of cisplatin ototoxicity, focusing on reactive oxygen species.
• Evaluation of otoprotective agents and administration routes, particularly intratympanic delivery.

Main Results:

• Cisplatin ototoxicity is a dose-dependent, progressive neurosensory hearing loss.
• Reactive oxygen species play a key role in cisplatin-induced damage to inner ear tissues.
• Intratympanic administration offers a promising strategy for local otoprotection, preserving cisplatin's anti-tumor effects.

Conclusions:

• Understanding cisplatin's ototoxicity mechanisms is vital for developing effective prevention strategies.
• Local administration, such as intratympanic therapy, represents a viable approach to mitigate hearing loss.
• Further clinical research is needed to validate the efficacy and safety of otoprotective treatments for cisplatin-induced ototoxicity.