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Cerebrospinal fluid parameters and auditory brainstem responses following meningitis
W J Borkowski1, D E Goldgar, M P Gorga
1Boys Town National Institute for Communication Disorders in Children, Omaha, NE 68131.
Pediatric Neurology
|May 1, 1985
Summary
Bacterial meningitis can cause hearing loss in young children. Nearly half of patients showed hearing impairment, and some had signs of retrocochlear issues, highlighting the need for auditory assessments post-treatment.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Audiology
- Infectious Disease Research
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Bacterial meningitis is a serious infection affecting the central nervous system in infants and young children.
- Hearing impairment is a known complication of meningitis, but the extent and nature of auditory dysfunction require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate auditory brainstem responses in children under 24 months following bacterial meningitis treatment.
- To identify risk factors associated with hearing loss and retrocochlear pathology in this population.
Main Methods:
- Auditory brainstem responses (ABRs) were measured in 94 children under 24 months post-treatment.
- Clinical data, including cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) glucose concentration and seizure history, were analyzed.
Main Results:
- 47% of children exhibited peripheral hearing loss (≥30 dB HLn).
- 9% showed prolonged interwave latencies, suggesting potential retrocochlear pathology.
- Lower CSF glucose and presence of seizures correlated with hearing loss magnitude.
Conclusions:
- Children treated for bacterial meningitis are at significant risk for hearing loss.
- Low CSF glucose and seizures are indicators of increased risk for auditory impairment.
- Routine audiological assessment is crucial for all children recovering from meningitis.