Bilateral cochlear implantation after immunotherapy-related profound hearing loss: A case report

Immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) are being utilized with increasing frequency and may be linked to neurologic and audiovestibular toxicities. This report aimed to describe a case of ICI-induced sensorineural hearing loss ultimately requiring bilateral cochlear implantation.

A 42-year-old female with stage IV metastatic melanoma of the perianal skin was treated with ipilimumab (blocker of cytotoxic T-lymphocyte associated protein 4 [CTLA-4]) and nivolumab (anti-programmed cell death protein 1 [PD1]). After 21 weeks of therapy, she developed sudden vertigo and bilateral hearing loss. A full workup including MRI and lumbar puncture ruled out intracranial parenchymal metastases, leptomeningeal metastases, stroke and intracranial infection. ICI-associated aseptic meningoencephalitis was therefore diagnosed. The patient received systemic steroids as well as intratympanic steroids, which temporarily improved hearing, but eventually developed permanent, bilateral profound sensorineural hearing loss.

The patient received bilateral cochlear implants and has demonstrated good performance one year after implantation.

ICI are being increasingly used to treat a variety of advanced malignancies. This is the first report of bilateral cochlear implants in the context of profound hearing loss after an immunotherapy induced meningoencephalitis.

ICI carries the risk of potential ototoxicity, including profound SNHL as depicted in our case. Cochlear implantation proved to be beneficial and may be considered in patients with ICI-related hearing loss.