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Sensorineural deafness--a new complication of ulcerative colitis?
Postgraduate Medical Journal
|August 1, 1986
Summary
Sudden bilateral sensorineural deafness can occur with active ulcerative colitis, suggesting an autoimmune link. Systemic corticosteroids may offer benefits for this potential extra-intestinal complication.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Gastroenterology
- Immunology
Background:
- Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease.
- Extra-intestinal manifestations (EIMs) of UC are common but varied.
- Autoimmune processes are implicated in some UC-related EIMs.
Observation:
- A case of sudden bilateral sensorineural hearing loss occurred in a patient with active ulcerative colitis.
- The hearing loss was sensorineural, affecting both ears.
- The patient had active, symptomatic ulcerative colitis at the time of hearing loss.
Findings:
- The hearing loss in this case is potentially linked to an autoimmune mechanism.
- Evidence suggests an autoimmune basis for sensorineural hearing loss in the context of UC.
- Systemic corticosteroid therapy showed potential benefit.
Implications:
- Sudden sensorineural hearing loss may be a newly recognized extra-intestinal complication of ulcerative colitis.
- Further research is warranted to confirm the autoimmune link and optimal treatment strategies.
- Early recognition and management, potentially with corticosteroids, could improve outcomes for affected patients.