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Accuracy of MR Imaging for Detection of Sensorineural Hearing Loss in Infants with Bacterial Meningitis

G Orman1, M K Kukreja2, J G Vallejo3

  • 1From the Edward B. Singleton Department of Radiology (G.O., M.K.K., N.D., T.A.G.M.H., S.F.K.) gxorman@texaschildrens.org.

AJNR. American Journal of Neuroradiology
|May 23, 2020
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

MR imaging of the inner ear can help predict sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) in infants with bacterial meningitis. Abnormal MRI findings show high specificity for SNHL, aiding in early diagnosis and management.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Radiology
  • Neuroimaging
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Bacterial meningitis is a serious infection in infants, often leading to sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL).
  • Early identification of SNHL risk is crucial for timely intervention in affected infants.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of magnetic resonance (MR) imaging for predicting SNHL in infants with bacterial meningitis.
  • To assess MR imaging features of the inner ear for their ability to detect SNHL.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of MRIs from 115 infants with bacterial meningitis.
  • Blinded review of 239 brain MRIs to identify abnormal inner ear enhancement (T1-weighted+C) and FLAIR hyperintensity.
  • Comparison of MR imaging findings with audiometric testing to determine sensitivity and specificity for SNHL.

Main Results:

  • Abnormal inner ear enhancement on T1-weighted+C sequences showed 61% sensitivity and 96% specificity for SNHL.
  • FLAIR hyperintensity had 50% sensitivity and 94% specificity; combined evaluation yielded 61% sensitivity and 94% specificity.
  • Low cerebrospinal fluid glucose and high protein levels were associated with abnormal MR imaging findings.

Conclusions:

  • Abnormal inner ear enhancement and/or FLAIR hyperintensity on MR imaging are specific indicators of SNHL risk in infants with bacterial meningitis.
  • MR imaging demonstrates potential as a valuable tool for predicting SNHL in this vulnerable population.

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