Hearing abnormalities in multiple sclerosis: clinical semiology and pathophysiologic mechanisms

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Neuroimmunology
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• Auditory manifestations are less common presenting symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS) compared to other neurological deficits.
• Hearing abnormalities in MS can significantly impact patient quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe four cases of auditory dysfunction secondary to MS.
• To report the first known case of palinacousis (perseveration of hearing) in MS.
• To highlight individualized treatment strategies and their efficacy in managing MS-related hearing issues.

Main Methods:

• Case series analysis of four patients with auditory changes attributed to MS.
• Detailed characterization of initial complaints, diagnostic workup (including clinical examination, laboratory testing, and neuro-imaging).
• Documentation of specific, individualized treatment interventions for each patient.

Main Results:

• Successful remission of auditory symptoms in all four cases through tailored treatment regimens.
• Identification and description of palinacousis as a rare auditory manifestation of MS.
• Correlation of clinical findings, pathophysiologic mechanisms, and lesion localization with treatment outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Individualized treatment approaches are effective in managing auditory disturbances in MS.
• This case series exemplifies precision medicine in the context of neuroimmunologic disorders.
• Understanding the clinical manifestations and pathophysiology is crucial for strategic treatment planning in MS-related auditory dysfunction.