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Nature and incidence of misonidazole-produced ototoxicity
Abstract:
Misonidazole, a potent new antitumor agent that selectively increases the effect of ionizing radiations on poorly oxygenated tumor tumor cells, was given to 21 patients at New York University-Bellevue Medical Center. In 11 of the 21 patients, hearing loss developed secondary to drug ingestion. In all cases the hearing loss was sensorineural, of cochlear origin, and at least partially reversible. There did not seem to be a relationship between degree of hearing loss and age, sex, dose, anatomic site of lesion, or prior hearing loss.
Insights
Misonidazole, an antitumor drug, caused hearing loss in 11 of 21 patients. This sensorineural hearing loss was reversible and not linked to patient factors or drug dosage.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Radiology
- Ototoxicology
Background:
- Misonidazole is an antitumor agent enhancing radiation therapy efficacy.
- It selectively targets poorly oxygenated tumor cells.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence and characteristics of hearing loss in patients receiving misonidazole.
Main Methods:
- Misonidazole was administered to 21 cancer patients.
- Audiometric evaluations were performed to assess hearing function.
Main Results:
- Hearing loss developed in 11 out of 21 patients.
- The hearing loss was sensorineural, originating in the cochlea, and partially reversible.
- No correlation was found between hearing loss and age, sex, dose, lesion site, or prior hearing issues.
Conclusions:
- Misonidazole can cause reversible sensorineural hearing loss.
- Further research is needed to understand the ototoxic mechanisms and risk factors.