[Inner ear and diabetes mellitus studies on 660 patients]

The purpose of this study was to examine the existence of any hearing loss typical of diabetes mellitus. 660 patients were interviewed by means of a questionnaire with regard to case history and the course of their disease. Internal and ophthalmological findings were registered which were compiled during clinical treatment for metabolic stabilisation. ENT examination was performed including vestibular and auditory tests. The evaluation of data showed that there was no median hearing loss which could be attributed to the diabetic metabolic disorder. The hypothesis that diabetes causes premature ageing with regard to hearing, could not be confirmed on a statistical basis. Statistical analysis of separate factors to establish links between diabetic disease, vascular risks, noise, or ear infections, does not yield any results.