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Neuro-rehabilitation Approach for Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Published on: January 25, 2016
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Hearing loss after bacterial meningitis, a retrospective study
Filip Persson1, Nora Bjar2, Ann Hermansson2
1Lund University Hospital, Lund, Sweden.
Acta Oto-Laryngologica
|April 11, 2022
Summary
Bacterial meningitis can cause hearing loss, especially with concurrent acute otitis media (AOM) and pneumococcal infections. Prompt ear exams are crucial for meningitis patients to identify and manage hearing loss risks.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurology
Background:
- Hearing loss is a frequent complication of bacterial meningitis.
- Risk factors, especially acute otitis media (AOM), are not well understood.
- This study investigates hearing loss in bacterial meningitis patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of hearing loss post-bacterial meningitis.
- To identify risk factors associated with hearing loss.
- To evaluate the role of concurrent AOM in hearing loss development.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of medical records from 2000-2017 in Skåne county, Sweden.
- Inclusion of patients treated for bacterial meningitis.
- Logistic regression used to assess risk factor associations.
Main Results:
- 187 bacterial meningitis cases identified; 71/119 patients with audiometry had hearing loss.
- Hearing loss was more prevalent in adults.
- Associations found between hearing loss and AOM, and hearing loss and pneumococcal infection.
Conclusions:
- Age, concurrent AOM, and pneumococcal infection are significant risk factors for hearing loss.
- Over a third of patients did not undergo recommended post-recovery hearing tests.
- Emphasizes the need for early ear examination and potential tympanocentesis in meningitis patients.
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