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Thyroid hormones and hearing loss
Yuxin Deng1, Junzhe Dong2, Haiyan Cao3
1Department of Endocrinology, Wuchang Hospital Affiliated to Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430063, China.
Molecular Medicine (Cambridge, Mass.)
|July 19, 2026
Summary
Thyroid dysfunction is a common cause of hearing loss, often overlooked. Thyroid hormone replacement therapy shows promise for hypothyroidism-related deafness, but hyperthyroidism-related hearing loss needs more research.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Otolaryngology
- Public Health
Background:
- Hearing loss is a significant global health concern with diverse causes.
- Thyroid hormone is crucial for auditory system development and function.
- Thyroid dysfunction, a prevalent endocrine disorder, is frequently linked to hearing impairment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the relationship between thyroid dysfunction and hearing loss.
- To summarize clinical audiological characteristics, pathophysiological mechanisms, and pathological manifestations.
- To discuss the role of thyroid hormone replacement therapy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on thyroid dysfunction and hearing loss.
- Analysis of audiological characteristics and pathological findings.
- Evaluation of treatment strategies, particularly thyroid hormone replacement therapy.
Main Results:
- Thyroid dysfunction, both congenital and acquired, can lead to hearing loss by affecting inner ear development and function.
- Hypothyroidism-related deafness may benefit from thyroid hormone replacement therapy.
- Effective treatments for hyperthyroidism-related deafness are still under investigation.
Conclusions:
- Thyroid-related hearing loss is underrecognized but significant.
- Understanding the mechanisms of thyroid dysfunction-induced hearing loss is key for prevention and treatment.
- Further research is needed for hyperthyroidism-related deafness and optimized therapeutic approaches.
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