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Exploring How Blood Cell Levels Influence Subjective Tinnitus: A Cross-Sectional Case-Control Study
Stefani Maihoub1, Panayiota Mavrogeni2, Gábor Dénes Répássy3
1Maihoub ENT Clinic, Aliakmona Street 16, Limassol 3117, Cyprus.
Audiology Research
|June 25, 2025
Summary
This study found no significant differences in general blood counts between tinnitus patients and controls. However, lower hemoglobin and platelet levels correlated with increased tinnitus severity and onset, suggesting a potential link.
Area of Science:
- Otorhinolaryngology
- Hematology
- Clinical Research
Background:
- Subjective tinnitus is a common condition with complex etiologies.
- Hematological parameters are increasingly explored for their potential role in various health conditions.
- Understanding correlations between blood markers and tinnitus may improve diagnostics and treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze hematological parameters in individuals with subjective tinnitus.
- To investigate potential correlations between specific blood markers and tinnitus severity, chronicity, and bilaterality.
- To explore the diagnostic and therapeutic implications of these findings.
Main Methods:
- A cohort study involving 439 patients with primary subjective tinnitus and 274 controls.
- Comprehensive laboratory testing of hematological parameters for all participants.
- Statistical analyses including logistic regression and Spearman's correlation tests.
Main Results:
- No significant differences in white blood cell, red blood cell, hemoglobin, hematocrit, or platelet levels between tinnitus and control groups.
- Lower hemoglobin and platelet levels significantly predicted higher Tinnitus Handicap Inventory scores (self-reported severity).
- Lower hemoglobin levels predicted bilateral tinnitus; red blood cell levels negatively correlated with tinnitus onset. Hemoglobin and hematocrit positively correlated with tinnitus frequency, while platelets negatively correlated with intensity and onset.
Conclusions:
- While overall hematological profiles did not differ significantly between groups, specific parameters warrant further investigation.
- Hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelet levels show significant correlations with tinnitus severity, frequency, and onset.
- These findings suggest a potential role for certain hematological factors in the pathophysiology of tinnitus, requiring further research.
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