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Sensorineural hearing loss caused by NSAID-induced aseptic meningitis
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Mayo Clinic and Mayo Foundation, Rochester, Minnesota, USA.
Ear, Nose, & Throat Journal
|November 18, 1998
Summary
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can cause rare aseptic meningitis, leading to hearing loss and tinnitus. Discontinuing NSAID use resolved these otologic symptoms and meningitis in a patient case study.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Otolaryngology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Aseptic meningitis is a rare but serious complication associated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use.
- Otologic manifestations, including sensorineural hearing loss and tinnitus, can occur in patients with meningitis.
Observation:
- A 66-year-old woman presented with sudden bilateral sensorineural hearing loss and increased tinnitus.
- She had a history of tympanoplasty and had been taking ibuprofen every six hours for three months for atypical face pain.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed abnormal dural enhancement extending into the internal auditory canals, and cerebrospinal fluid examination confirmed aseptic meningitis.
Findings:
- The patient's audiogram confirmed new bilateral sensorineural hearing loss.
- Upon discontinuation of NSAID medication, the patient's hearing loss and tinnitus resolved.
- Follow-up MRI showed no abnormalities after stopping the medication.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering NSAIDs as a potential cause of aseptic meningitis, especially when accompanied by otologic symptoms.
- Otolaryngologists should include NSAID-induced meningitis in their differential diagnosis for patients presenting with unexplained hearing loss and tinnitus.
- Early recognition and cessation of NSAID use can lead to the resolution of meningitis and associated otologic complications.