Noise-induced autoimmune sensorineural hearing loss.
Typically, autoimmune sensorineural hearing loss has been described as a slowly progressive, asymmetric hearing loss that is responsive to medications traditionally used in the treatment of other autoimmune conditions. These medications include steroids and cytotoxic drugs. Inciting factors in autoimmune inner ear disease are rarely cited. We describe a case of episodic sudden hearing loss triggered consistently by environmental noise. The hearing loss was responsive to steroids at the time of each occurrence and was determined to be autoimmune. This case raises questions about the relationship between autoimmune inner ear disease and sensitivity to environmental noise that warrant further research.
Gupta
Reena
R
Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Thomas Jefferson Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA 19103-6771, USA.
Sataloff
Robert T
RT
D020274:Autoimmune Diseases of the Nervous System / Q000150:complications* / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy; D005260:Female; D006317:Hearing Loss, Noise-Induced / Q000150:complications* / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy; D003639:Hearing Loss, Sudden / Q000209:etiology*; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged