Clinical analysis of steroid-responsive sensorineural hearing loss

In order to clarify general clinical features, characteristics of hearing level fluctuation, and therapeutic strategy in steroid-responsive sensorineural hearing loss, we conducted clinical analysis in the cases which were registered based upon the diagnostic criteria proposed by Kanzaki in 1981. The results obtained were as follows: (1) Disregarding steroid-responsiveness, both ears were impaired in all cases. (2) Female predominance and middle aged onset were found. (3) The underlying immunological abnormality could exist even in the cases without systemic autoimmune disease. (4) The mean incidence in acute hearing change was about once a year in low-frequency area and once 2 years in mid- and high-frequency areas. (5) The mean value of maximum hearing level fluctuation during follow-up period was about 35 dB. (6) The final prognosis of hearing was relatively excellent. (7) By the supplemental administration of Sairei-to for more than 2 years, the maintenance dose of prednisolone was reduced in 80% of the subjects without any significant deterioration of hearing.