[Hearing loss due to mumps (author's transl)]

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Pediatrics
• Epidemiology

Context:

• A significant mumps epidemic occurred in 1970, with a notable increase in cases presenting with meningoencephalitis.
• Boys aged 5-7 years were disproportionately affected during the epidemic peak.
• Longitudinal hearing assessments were conducted on children following the epidemic.

Purpose:

• To investigate the prevalence of hearing impairment in children following a mumps epidemic.
• To determine potential correlations between mumps severity, meningoencephalitis, and subsequent hearing loss.
• To establish the long-term audiological outcomes in a pediatric population exposed to mumps.

Summary:

• A cohort of 765 children was evaluated for hearing impairment years after a mumps epidemic.
• Audiometric testing revealed that 4.9% of the children experienced significant hearing loss, including high-tone hearing loss and deafness.
• No definitive association was found between the severity of mumps, meningoencephalitis, affected gland location, or illness duration and the occurrence of hearing impairment.

Impact:

• Highlights the potential risk of hearing impairment following mumps, emphasizing the need for audiological surveillance in affected children.
• Underscores that even seemingly uncomplicated mumps cases can result in hearing deficits.
• Informs public health strategies regarding vaccination and post-epidemic monitoring for pediatric hearing health.