Associations between diabetes mellitus and sensorineural hearing loss from humans and animal studies

There is controversy regarding the association and etiopathogenesis of diabetes mellitus (DM) and sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). Some studies support that SNHL develops because of angiopathy and/or neuropathy caused by DM, but many of the findings have been inconsistent. This review aims to highlight a select number of studies that effectively describe the relationship between DM and SNHL, thus bringing more attention and awareness to this area of research. This review also describes animal models to understand better the mechanisms of DM contributing to SNHL in the inner ear. The goal of this narrative review is for researchers and healthcare professionals to further their understanding and investigation of the etiopathogenesis of both DM and SNHL, therefore leading to the development of effective treatments for diabetic patients displaying symptoms of SNHL.