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Preterm EEG: A Multimodal Neurophysiological Protocol
Published on: February 18, 2012
Risk factors of sensorineural hearing loss in preterm infants
C Borradori1, C L Fawer, T Buclin
1Department of Paediatrics, University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland.
Biology of the Neonate
|January 1, 1997
Summary
Severe progressive hearing loss affects 1.46% of preterm infants. Perinatal complications and ototoxic drug exposure, like aminoglycosides and furosemide, are associated risk factors. Regular hearing assessments are crucial for early detection.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Audiology
- Pediatric Otolaryngology
Background:
- Preterm infants are at increased risk for sensorineural hearing loss.
- Identifying specific perinatal risk factors is crucial for early intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence and risk factors of severe progressive sensorineural hearing loss in preterm infants.
- To determine the association between perinatal complications, ototoxic drug exposure, and hearing loss.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 547 preterm infants (<= 34 weeks gestation) was studied.
- Infants with hearing loss were compared to matched control groups based on gestation, birth weight, and perinatal complications.
- Ototoxic drug administration (aminoglycosides, furosemide) and dosage were analyzed.
Main Results:
- 8 children (1.46%) developed severe, progressive, bilateral sensorineural hearing loss.
- A higher incidence of perinatal complications was observed in infants with hearing loss.
- Prolonged administration and higher total doses of ototoxic drugs were closely related to hearing loss.
Conclusions:
- Perinatal complications and ototoxic drug exposure are significant risk factors for severe hearing loss in preterm infants.
- Hearing loss in this population is often of delayed onset, bilateral, and severe.
- Prospective and regular audiologic assessment is strongly recommended for sick preterm children.
