Sensorineural Deafness Following Tacrolimus Use

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Otolaryngology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Tacrolimus is an immunosuppressant commonly used in renal transplant recipients.
• Previous studies have not identified hearing loss as a common adverse effect of tacrolimus therapy.

Observation:

• This report details a case of deafness in a renal transplant recipient undergoing tacrolimus treatment.
• A review of existing literature was conducted to identify similar cases and potential mechanisms.

Findings:

• The case and literature review suggest a correlation between tacrolimus use and hearing loss.
• A sudden spike in tacrolimus serum levels, followed by cumulative toxicity, is hypothesized as the primary cause.

Implications:

• Clinicians should be vigilant for auditory adverse effects in patients treated with tacrolimus.
• Monitoring tacrolimus serum levels and considering ototoxicity are crucial for patient management.
• Further research is warranted to elucidate the precise mechanisms of tacrolimus-induced ototoxicity.