Hearing loss in multiple sclerosis

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Audiology
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• Hearing loss is an uncommon symptom in multiple sclerosis (MS).
• Associated neurological symptoms can provide clues to auditory dysfunction in MS patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence and characteristics of hearing loss in patients with multiple sclerosis.
• To explore the relationship between hearing impairment and other neurological symptoms in MS.

Main Methods:

• Audiometric evaluations were performed on nine patients with multiple sclerosis.
• Brainstem auditory evoked potentials (BAEPs) were utilized to assess central auditory pathways.
• Clinical and electrophysiological data were correlated with audiological findings.

Main Results:

• Seven patients presented with unilateral hearing loss, and two with bilateral impairment.
• Accompanying symptoms included facial numbness, hemifacial paresis/spasms, ataxia, nystagmus, vertigo, tinnitus, and gait disturbances.
• Central auditory dysfunction was indicated by audiometric and/or BAEP findings in all nine patients.

Conclusions:

• Hearing impairment is a potential, though uncommon, symptom of multiple sclerosis.
• Central auditory dysfunction should be considered in MS patients presenting with neurological symptoms.
• Audiological and electrophysiological assessments are crucial for diagnosing hearing impairment in MS.