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Acute bilateral total deafness complicating mumps
Abstract:
While it is well known that mumps is a potential cause of deafness, it is not generally appreciated that it can produce total deafness. The damage is usually unilateral but bilateral disease has been recorded. A case is presented of severe bilateral hearing loss during a mumps epidemic in which, in spite of intensive conventional as well as lesser known therapy, no improvement occurred. In the absence of a successful therapeutic regime it is clearly advisable to intensify immunization in non-developed countries.
Insights
Mumps can cause total deafness, often affecting one ear but sometimes both. Despite various treatments, one case showed no hearing improvement, highlighting the need for better mumps immunization, especially in developing nations.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Mumps virus (Mumps or Paramyxovirus) is a known cause of hearing loss.
- Deafness from mumps is typically unilateral, but bilateral cases are documented.
Observation:
- A case study during a mumps epidemic documented severe bilateral hearing loss.
- The patient received intensive conventional and alternative therapies.
Findings:
- No improvement in hearing was observed despite comprehensive treatment.
- This case underscores the potential for mumps to cause profound, irreversible bilateral deafness.
Implications:
- Current therapeutic strategies for mumps-induced hearing loss are insufficient.
- Increased mumps vaccination programs are crucial, particularly in non-developed countries, to prevent such severe outcomes.