[Hypacusis in acquired hypothyroidism (author's transl)]

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Otolaryngology
• Audiology

Context:

• Hypothyroidism, a condition of insufficient thyroid hormone, is associated with various systemic effects.
• Hearing impairment is a potential, yet not fully understood, complication of hypothyroidism.
• Previous research has not comprehensively detailed the audiological profile and specific hair cell damage in hypothyroid patients.

Purpose:

• To investigate the prevalence, characteristics, and localization of hearing abnormalities in patients with hypothyroidism.
• To assess the correlation between the severity of hypothyroidism and the type/degree of hearing loss.
• To evaluate the impact of thyroid hormone substitution therapy on hearing function in hypothyroid patients.

Summary:

• A study of 56 patients with hypothyroidism and 18 controls revealed hearing loss in 45% of hypothyroid patients.
• The hearing loss was predominantly mild to moderate, with conductive or mixed types more common.
• Hair cell damage was observed in 13 patients, and a correlation existed between conductive hearing loss and hypothyroidism severity.
• Fifty percent of patients experienced significant hearing improvement after initiating thyroid hormone replacement therapy.

Impact:

• Highlights the significant prevalence of hearing impairment in hypothyroidism, necessitating audiological screening.
• Demonstrates the reversibility of certain hearing deficits with timely endocrine treatment.
• Provides evidence for the ototoxic effects of thyroid hormone deficiency and the benefits of treatment.