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Sudden deafness in relapsing polychondritis. A scanning electron microscopy study
Acta Oto-Laryngologica
|November 1, 1978
Summary
Sudden deafness in relapsing polychondritis may be viral, as shown by severe cochlear and vestibular damage. Scanning electron microscopy revealed organ of Corti degeneration and sensory cell loss, highlighting its utility in temporal bone pathology.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Pathology
- Microscopy
Background:
- Relapsing polychondritis is an autoimmune disorder that can affect cartilage throughout the body, including the temporal bone.
- Sudden deafness is a rare but serious complication of relapsing polychondritis.
Observation:
- A 57-year-old female patient with relapsing polychondritis experienced sudden deafness in her left ear.
- The patient's temporal bone was examined using scanning electron microscopy.
Findings:
- Severe degeneration of the organ of Corti was observed in all cochlear turns.
- The tectorial membrane was dislocated and encapsulated.
- Significant loss of sensory cells in the utricle and saccule, and complete absence of sensory hair bundles in the semicircular canals were noted in the vestibule.
Implications:
- The observed pathological changes suggest a viral etiology for the sudden deafness in this case.
- Scanning electron microscopy is a valuable tool for investigating human temporal bone pathology.
- Understanding the mechanisms of hearing loss in relapsing polychondritis can inform future treatment strategies.