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Acquired irreversible sensorineural hearing loss associated with otitis media with effusion
American Journal of Otolaryngology
|May 1, 1982
Summary
Chronic otitis media with effusion can cause irreversible sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) due to middle ear infections reaching the inner ear. Tympanostomy tubes did not prevent this hearing loss.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Audiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Chronic otitis media with effusion (COME) is a common condition.
- Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) is typically associated with other causes.
- The link between COME and SNHL is not fully understood.
Observation:
- Three patients with COME developed irreversible sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL).
- Standard investigations ruled out known causes of inner ear damage.
- Hearing loss varied from high-tone loss to complete deafness.
Findings:
- A potential mechanism for SNHL in COME is the migration of infectious agents or toxins from the middle to the inner ear via the round window membrane.
- This complication appears independent of the effusion type (serous or mucoid).
Implications:
- COME may pose a risk for SNHL, necessitating careful monitoring.
- Current treatments like tympanostomy tubes may not prevent SNHL development.
- Further research into preventative strategies and the precise pathogenic pathways is warranted.