Causal associations of renal function and sudden sensorineural hearing loss: Evidence from a two-sample multivariable...

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Otolaryngology
• Genetics

Background:

• Observational studies suggest an association between renal function and sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL).
• The causal relationship between kidney function indicators and SSNHL risk remains unclear.
• Existing evidence highlights the need for robust causal inference methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the causal effect of key renal function indicators on the risk of developing SSNHL.
• To utilize Mendelian randomization (MR) and propensity score methods for robust causal inference.
• To explore potential interactions among renal function indicators and their combined effect on SSNHL.

Main Methods:

• Two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis using genome-wide association study (GWAS) summary-level data.
• Inverse variance weighting (IVW), MR-Egger regression, and weighted median methods were employed.
• Propensity score matching and multivariate MR analysis were conducted to confirm findings and account for confounding factors.

Main Results:

• Significant causal relationships were identified between urinary albumin excretion (UAER) and cystatin-C (Cys-C) levels and the risk of SSNHL.
• Inverse variance weighting (IVW) analysis showed reduced risk of SSNHL with lower UAER and Cys-C.
• Multivariate MR and case-control analyses corroborated these findings, indicating elevated Cys-C and reduced serum uric acid in SSNHL patients.

Conclusions:

• Renal function, specifically UAER and Cys-C levels, appears to have a causal impact on the risk of SSNHL.
• These findings suggest that monitoring and managing renal function indicators are crucial for SSNHL prevention and treatment.
• Further research into the mechanisms linking renal health and hearing loss is warranted.