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[Hearing loss secondary to lumbar puncture]
O Aréchaga Orúe1, I G Gurtubay Gálligo
1Servicio de ORL, Hospital de Galdácano, Vizcaya.
Acta Otorrinolaringologica Espanola
|February 10, 1999
Summary
Lumbar puncture can cause temporary hearing loss and tinnitus due to reduced cerebrospinal fluid pressure. Symptoms resolved within 10 days in reported cases, but awareness of this potential adverse effect is crucial.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Lumbar puncture, a common diagnostic procedure, can lead to various complications.
- Hearing disturbances are infrequently reported post-lumbar puncture and may be masked by other symptoms like headache and dizziness.
Observation:
- Two cases presented with sudden onset hearing loss and tinnitus hours after an uncomplicated diagnostic lumbar puncture.
- Audiograms revealed significant bilateral sensorineural hearing loss in the lower frequencies (40-50 dB).
Findings:
- The hearing impairment and tinnitus resolved spontaneously within 7-10 days in both patients.
- Reduced cerebrospinal fluid pressure following lumbar puncture is hypothesized as the cause of vestibulocochlear dysfunction.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider hearing dysfunction as a potential, albeit rare, adverse effect of lumbar puncture.
- Awareness of this possibility is important for accurate diagnosis and management, especially given reports of permanent hearing loss.