1
|
Huang KH, Lin HC, Lin CD, Wu PC. Relapsing autoimmune inner ear disease with significant response to methotrexate and azathioprine combination therapy: A case report and mini literature review. Medicine (Baltimore) 2023; 102:e33889. [PMID: 37335659 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000033889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Autoimmune inner ear disease typically presents with bilateral hearing loss that progresses over weeks or months though its mechanisms are unknown. Corticosteroids are the first-line treatment, but their responses are variable and relapses are frequent. Thus, many experts have sought to replace corticosteroids with immunosuppressive agents. PATIENT CONCERNS A 35-year-old woman experienced a progressive hearing impairment, initially on the left side and later becoming bilateral. Her response to corticosteroid monotherapy was temporary, and there have been two relapse episodes over several months. DIAGNOSES Autoimmune inner ear disease was considered due to evidence of autoimmunity combined with a clinical course of bilateral and recurrent sensorineural hearing loss and a partial response to corticosteroid therapy. INTERVENTIONS The patient received a 3-day mini-pulse of methylprednisolone at 250 mg/d, followed by 12 mg/d maintenance, and concurrently began an azathioprine regimen gradually increasing to 100 mg/day as a corticosteroid-sparing agent. OUTCOMES Three weeks after immunosuppressive therapy, hearing and pure-tone audiometry improved, and after 7 weeks, methylprednisolone was tapered to 8 mg/d. The dosage was further reduced by adding methotrexate at 7.5 mg/week, resulting in a reduction to 4 mg/d as maintenance therapy after 4 weeks. LESSONS For patients who are unresponsive to corticosteroids or experience difficulty tolerating them, a combination therapy of methotrexate and azathioprine is recommended as a viable alternative as this regimen is well-tolerated and yields positive outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kuan-Hsuan Huang
- Department of Education, Shin Kong Wu Ho Su Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsiao-Ching Lin
- Department of Education, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Der Lin
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Po-Chang Wu
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Rheumatology and Immunology Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Gordis TM, Shah SR, Ward C, Rizk HG. Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs in the Treatment of Autoimmune Inner Ear Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Auditory and Vestibular Outcomes. Otol Neurotol 2023; 44:2-9. [PMID: 36509432 DOI: 10.1097/mao.0000000000003743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To answer the following question: In patients with primary autoimmune inner ear disease (AIED), (population) what impact do disease-modifying antirheumatic agents (DMARDs) (intervention) when compared with no treatment or corticosteroids (comparison) have on auditory and vestibular outcomes (outcome)? STUDY DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis. DATA SOURCES According to PRISMA guidelines, PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library databases were searched from inception to March 10, 2022. STUDY SELECTION Studies of patients receiving DMARDs for the treatment of AIED were selected for review. Case reports, phase I/II trials, studies of patients with secondary AIED, and studies of AIED patients receiving solely corticosteroids were excluded. DATA EXTRACTION Primary outcomes were pure-tone audiometry and speech discrimination scores at baseline and after DMARD treatment. Secondary outcomes were rates of subjective audiovestibular complaints and rates of adverse reactions. No objective vestibular outcomes underwent meta-analysis. DATA SYNTHESIS Mean differences were calculated using RevMan 5.4. Heterogeneity was assessed with the Q test and I2 statistic. Pooled prevalence rates of audiovestibular symptoms were expressed as a percentage with 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS Ten studies with a total of 187 patients were included. Treatments included methotrexate, etanercept, azathioprine, anakinra, cyclophosphamide, rituximab, and infliximab. Mean treatment duration was 10.8 ± 22.2 months and mean follow-up was 13.7 ± 8.1 months. The pure-tone audiometry and speech discrimination scores mean differences between baseline and post-DMARD were -2.1 [-4.1, -0.1] dB and 13.9 [8.5, 19.4] %, respectively. Seven studies reported 38 adverse events, four of which were classified as serious. CONCLUSION DMARDs showed statistically significant improvement in auditory outcomes, as well as subjective symptoms, with relatively low rates of adverse events. They warrant further exploration to better compare with corticosteroids.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tamar M Gordis
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Evidence Supporting the Hypothesis That Inflammation-Induced Vasospasm Is Involved in the Pathogenesis of Acquired Sensorineural Hearing Loss. Int J Otolaryngol 2019; 2019:4367240. [PMID: 31781229 PMCID: PMC6875011 DOI: 10.1155/2019/4367240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2019] [Revised: 10/04/2019] [Accepted: 10/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Sensorineural hearing loss is mainly acquired and affects an estimated 1.3 billion humans worldwide. It is related to aging, noise, infection, ototoxic drugs, and genetic defects. It is essential to identify reversible and preventable causes to be able to reduce the burden of this disease. Inflammation is involved in most causes and leads to tissue injury through vasospasm-associated ischemia. Vasospasm is reversible. This review summarized evidence linking inflammation-induced vasospasm to several forms of acquired sensorineural hearing loss. The link between vasospasm and sensorineural hearing loss is directly evident in subarachnoid haemorrhage, which involves the release of vasoconstriction-inducing cytokines like interleukin-1, endothelin-1, and tumour necrosis factor. These proinflammatory cytokines can also be released in response to infection, autoimmune disease, and acute or chronically increased inflammation in the ageing organism as in presbyacusis or in noise-induced cochlear injury. Evidence of vasospasm and hearing loss has also been discovered in bacterial meningitis and brain injury. Resolution of inflammation-induced vasospasm has been associated with improvement of hearing in autoimmune diseases involving overproduction of interleukin-1 from inflammasomes. There is mainly indirect evidence for vasospasm-associated sensorineural hearing loss in most forms of systemic or injury- or infection-induced local vascular inflammation. This opens up avenues in prevention and treatment of vascular and systemic inflammation as well as vasospasm itself as a way to prevent and treat most forms of acquired sensorineural hearing loss. Future research needs to investigate interventions antagonising vasospasm and vasospasm-inducing proinflammatory cytokines and their production in randomised controlled trials of prevention and treatment of acquired sensorineural hearing loss. Prime candidates for interventions are hereby inflammasome inhibitors and vasospasm-reducing drugs like nitric oxide donors, rho-kinase inhibitors, and magnesium which have the potential to reduce sensorineural hearing loss in meningitis, exposure to noise, brain injury, arteriosclerosis, and advanced age-related and autoimmune disease-related inflammation.
Collapse
|
4
|
Abstract
Hearing loss is present in millions of people worldwide. Current treatment for patients with severe to profound hearing loss consists of cochlear implantation. Providing the cochlear nerve is intact, patients generally benefit greatly from this intervention, frequently achieving significant improvements in speech comprehension. There are, however, some cases where current technology does not provide patients with adequate benefit. Ongoing research in cell transplantation and gene therapy promises to lead to new developments that will improve the function of cochlear implants. Translation of these experimental approaches is presently at an early stage. This review focuses on the application of biological therapies in severe hearing loss and discusses some of the barriers to translating basic scientific research into clinical reality. We emphasize the application of these novel therapies to cochlear implantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Roemer
- Klinik für Hals-Nasen-Ohren-Heilkunde OE 6500, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany.
| | - H Staecker
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - S Sasse
- Klinik für Hals-Nasen-Ohren-Heilkunde OE 6500, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - T Lenarz
- Klinik für Hals-Nasen-Ohren-Heilkunde OE 6500, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - A Warnecke
- Klinik für Hals-Nasen-Ohren-Heilkunde OE 6500, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Fousekis FS, Saridi M, Albani E, Daniel F, Katsanos KH, Kastanioudakis IG, Christodoulou DK. Ear Involvement in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Review of the Literature. J Clin Med Res 2018; 10:609-614. [PMID: 29977417 PMCID: PMC6031254 DOI: 10.14740/jocmr3465w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2018] [Accepted: 05/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a multisystemic disease. The ear is a rare but recognized site of extraintestinal manifestations of IBD. In external ear, the more common manifestations of IBD are pyoderma gangrenosum, metastatic Crohn’s disease and relapsing polychondritis and the treatment includes corticosteroids and anti-TNF agents. Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) is the most common ear disease in IBD and especially in patients with ulcerative colitis. In most cases of IBD patients with SNHL, the hearing loss is attributable to autoimmune inner ear disease (AIED). Diagnosis of AIED is based on clinical presentation, the demonstration of a progressive sensorineural hearing loss in periodic audiological tests, a response to immunosuppressive drugs and exclusion of other causes of SNHL. The only diagnostic test that is available for clinical use is the Otoblot test (Western blot for antibodies against 68 kD protein-inner ear antigens). Initial therapy is usually steroids, with a step up to anti-TNF-a therapy and cochlear implantations with failure of treatment. Furthermore, Cogan’s syndrome, a chronic disease characterized by deafness, vertigo keratitis and aortitis, has been associated with IBD and mainly with Crohn’s disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fotios S Fousekis
- Department of Gastroenterology, Medical School of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Maria Saridi
- Department of Social and Educational Policy, University of Peloponnese, Corinth, Greece.,Hellenic Open University, Patras, Greece
| | - Eleni Albani
- Nursing Department, Technological University of Patras, Patra, Greece
| | - Fady Daniel
- Melbourne Medical School, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Roemer A, Staecker H, Sasse S, Lenarz T, Warnecke A. [Biological therapies in otology. German version]. HNO 2017; 65:571-585. [PMID: 28204850 DOI: 10.1007/s00106-016-0304-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Millions of people worldwide suffer from hearing loss. Current treatment for patients with severe to profound hearing loss consists of cochlear implants. Providing the cochlear nerve is intact, patients generally benefit enormously from this intervention, frequently achieving significant improvements in speech comprehension. There are, however, some cases where current technology does not provide patients with adequate benefit. New therapeutic concepts based on cell transplantation and gene therapy are developing rapidly, at least in the research sector. Compared to the wealth of basic research available in this area, translation of these new experimental approaches into clinical application is presently at a very early stage. The current review focuses on translatable treatment concepts and discusses the barriers that need to be overcome in order to translate basic scientific research into clinical reality. Furthermore, the first examples of clinical application of biological therapies in severe hearing loss are presented, particularly in connection with cochlear implants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Roemer
- Klinik für Hals-Nasen-Ohren-Heilkunde OE 6500 Hannover Medical School, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625, Hannover, Deutschland.
| | - H Staecker
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - S Sasse
- Klinik für Hals-Nasen-Ohren-Heilkunde OE 6500 Hannover Medical School, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625, Hannover, Deutschland
| | - T Lenarz
- Klinik für Hals-Nasen-Ohren-Heilkunde OE 6500 Hannover Medical School, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625, Hannover, Deutschland
| | - A Warnecke
- Klinik für Hals-Nasen-Ohren-Heilkunde OE 6500 Hannover Medical School, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625, Hannover, Deutschland
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Chawki S, Aouizerate J, Trad S, Prinseau J, Hanslik T. Bilateral sudden sensorineural hearing loss as a presenting feature of systemic lupus erythematosus: Case report and brief review of other published cases. Medicine (Baltimore) 2016; 95:e4345. [PMID: 27603334 PMCID: PMC5023856 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000004345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sudden sensorineural hearing loss is an unusual presenting clinical feature of systemic lupus erythematosus. CASE REPORT We report the case of a young woman who was admitted to hospital for sudden sensorineural hearing loss and hemophagocytic syndrome which was attributed to systemic lupus erythematosus on the basis of specific renal involvement, thrombocytopenia, and consistent autoantibodies. Favorable outcome was obtained on high-dose corticosteroids, and the hearing fully recovered. DISCUSSION Sudden sensorineural hearing loss in systemic lupus erythematosus is seemingly more frequently associated with severe systemic involvement and antiphospholipid antibodies may be present. Although management remains empirical, the high risk of permanent hearing impairment seems to justify emergency treatment with high-dose corticosteroids. When the clinical and laboratory criteria of antiphospholipid syndrome are met, antiplatelets agents or anticoagulation therapy shall be considered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sylvain Chawki
- Service de Médecine Interne, Hôpital Ambroise Paré, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, APHP, Boulogne Billancourt
- Université de Versailles Saint Quentin en Yvelines, UVSQ, Versailles
- Correspondence: Sylvain Chawki, 20 avenue Corot, Le Vesinet 78110, France (e-mail: )
| | - Jessie Aouizerate
- Service de Néphrologie, Hôpital Henri Mondor, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, APHP, Créteil
| | - Selim Trad
- Service de Médecine Interne, Hôpital Ambroise Paré, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, APHP, Boulogne Billancourt
- Université de Versailles Saint Quentin en Yvelines, UVSQ, Versailles
| | - Jacques Prinseau
- Service de Médecine Interne, Hôpital Ambroise Paré, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, APHP, Boulogne Billancourt
- Université de Versailles Saint Quentin en Yvelines, UVSQ, Versailles
| | - Thomas Hanslik
- Service de Médecine Interne, Hôpital Ambroise Paré, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, APHP, Boulogne Billancourt
- Université de Versailles Saint Quentin en Yvelines, UVSQ, Versailles
- Institut Pierre Louis d’Epidémiologie et de Santé Publique, Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, UMR_S 1136
- INSERM, UMR_S 1136, Institut Pierre Louis d’Epidémiologie et de Santé Publique, Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has many characteristics of autoimmune diseases. Sensorineural hearing loss has been reported in many autoimmune diseases. Little is known about hearing loss in patients with IBD. METHODS A prospective blinded comparative study was conducted over a 3-year period. IBD patients and controls underwent a complete otorhinolaryngeal examination and eudiometry test. RESULTS Altogether 105 participants (76 patients and 29 controls) took part in this study. Mean age was 36, 51 % were males, and 40 % of the patients were presently hospitalized due to IBD exacerbation. Audiometric examination revealed that any hearing loss (mild to severe) was found in 29 (38 %) of the IBD population, compared to 4 (14 %) of the control group (p = 0.02). Extraintestinal manifestation (EIM) was present in 33/76 (43 %) of IBD patients. Any hearing loss and moderate to severe hearing loss were found in 17/33 (52 %) and 7/33 (21 %) in the EIM-positive group compared to 12/43 (28 %) and 4/43 (9 %) in the EIM-negative group (p = 0.036 and p = 0.14, respectively). Out of patients over the age of 40 with other EIMs, all 11/11 (100 %) of patients had any hearing loss compared to 8/12 (66 %) of patients over the age of 40 without other EIMs, p = 0.035. CONCLUSIONS Hearing loss may be another EIM of IBD. It is found in 38 % of IBD patients and in up to 52 % of patients with other EIMs and increases over the age of 40. Early hearing evaluation should be recommended to these high-risk IBD patients.
Collapse
|
9
|
Tsinaslanidou Z, Tsaligopoulos M, Angouridakis N, Vital V, Kekes G, Constantinidis J. The Expression of TNFα, IL-6, IL-2 and IL-8 in the Serum of Patients with Idiopathic Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss: Possible Prognostic Factors of Response to Corticosteroid Treatment. AUDIOLOGY AND NEUROTOLOGY EXTRA 2016. [DOI: 10.1159/000442016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSNHL) remains one of the major unsolved otologic emergencies. A viral infection, a systemic inflammatory disorder, as well as physical, mental and metabolic stress can trigger an innate immune response in the inner ear resulting in ISSNHL. Proinflammatory cytokines play a central role in this cochlear immunological cascade. Objective: To examine the expression of proinflammatory cytokines in the serum of patients with ISSNHL in correlation with the therapeutic outcome of intravenous administration of corticosteroids. Method: Forty-three patients primarily diagnosed with ISSNHL underwent intravenous corticosteroid treatment for 8 days. The expression of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-2 (IL-2) and interleukin-8 (IL-8) was detected with the use of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in serum specimens on the 1st and 8th day of treatment and it was correlated with the treatment outcome. Results: TNFα reduction and IL-6 increase strongly correlate with a good therapeutic result [χ2(2) = 13.12, p = 0.001 and χ2(2) = 16.78, p = 0.0001]. IL-8 increase reflects negatively on the outcome, however, not in a statistically significant way. No association was established between IL-2 variations and the therapeutic outcome. Conclusions: TNFα and IL-6 can be used as prognostic factors for the treatment outcome, whereas the prognostic value of IL-8 requires further statistical confirmation.
Collapse
|
10
|
|
11
|
An open label study to evaluate the safety and efficacy of intratympanic golimumab therapy in patients with autoimmune inner ear disease. Otol Neurotol 2015; 35:1515-21. [PMID: 25203561 DOI: 10.1097/mao.0000000000000566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the safety and efficacy of intratympanically injected golimumab (GLM), a TNF-α inhibitor, as a steroid-sparing agent for patients with steroid-dependent autoimmune inner ear disease (AIED). STUDY DESIGN Open label. SETTING Tertiary referral center. PATIENTS Ten patients with steroid-dependent AIED were enrolled in Stage 2. The average patient age at enrollment was 59, with an average of 12.5 years from the start of bilateral hearing loss symptoms. The average dose of daily prednisone at the start of injections was 18 mg. INTERVENTION Intratympanic injection of GLM. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE Hearing loss progression (treatment failure) was defined as either an increase in pure-tone thresholds by frequency or a decrease in word recognition score. RESULTS There were no serious adverse events. Five of seven per-protocol subjects experienced stable pure-tone thresholds in the injected ear, whereas 4 had stable word recognition scores. Two subjects experienced an improvement in word recognition scores. The results support the hypothesis that GLM may be a promising treatment. CONCLUSIONS The TNF-α inhibitor GLM stabilized hearing in 3 of 7 per-protocol subjects with AIED and allowed a complete tapering off of prednisone in those 7 subjects. Studies with larger samples sizes are warranted.
Collapse
|
12
|
Infliximab for autoimmune inner ear disease: case report and literature review. The Journal of Laryngology & Otology 2013; 127:1145-7. [PMID: 24125068 DOI: 10.1017/s002221511300217x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed (1) to report the long-term effects of infliximab, a murine monoclonal antibody directed against tumour necrosis factor-α, on autoimmune inner ear disease, and (2) to discuss dilemmas surrounding the long-term management of autoimmune inner ear disease. CASE REPORT A 49-year-old man presented with sudden-onset, left-sided, sensorineural hearing loss, tinnitus and vertigo. He was prescribed oral prednisolone, with benefit. Over several subsequent months, he experienced frequent relapses and progressive deterioration of high-frequency hearing bilaterally. Multiple agents failed to stabilise his condition. Following infliximab treatment, there was a documented and sustained improvement in his hearing and tinnitus. He stopped the treatment after 46 weeks, with rapid relapse of his condition. His hearing recovered quickly again after recommencing infliximab. CONCLUSION The benefits of prolonged infliximab use and potential side effects must be balanced against allowing the disease to take its course, with progressive deafness. Randomised controlled trials are required to assess infliximab's optimal duration of use, long-term efficacy and safety in the treatment of autoimmune inner ear disease.
Collapse
|
13
|
Zenone T. Syndrome de Cogan. Presse Med 2013; 42:951-60. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lpm.2012.09.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2012] [Revised: 09/12/2012] [Accepted: 09/27/2012] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
|
14
|
Meltser I, Canlon B. Protecting the auditory system with glucocorticoids. Hear Res 2011; 281:47-55. [PMID: 21718769 DOI: 10.1016/j.heares.2011.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2011] [Revised: 06/07/2011] [Accepted: 06/09/2011] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids are hormones released following stress-related events and function to maintain homeostasis. Glucocorticoid receptors localize, among others, to hair cells, spiral ligament and spiral ganglion neurons. Glucocorticoid receptor-induced protection against acoustic trauma is found by i) pretreatment with glucocorticoid agonists; ii) acute restraint stress; and iii) sound conditioning. In contrast, glucocorticoid receptor antagonists exacerbate hearing loss. These findings have important clinical significance since synthetic glucocorticoids are commonly used to treat hearing loss. However, this treatment has limited success since hearing improvement is often not maintained once the treatment has ended, a fact that reduces the overall appeal for this treatment. It must be realized that despite the widespread use of glucocorticoids to treat hearing disorders, the molecular mechanisms underlying this treatment are not well characterized. This review will give insight into some physiological and biochemical mechanisms underlying glucocorticoid treatment for preventing hearing loss.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Inna Meltser
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Yehudai D, Shoenfeld Y, Toubi E. The autoimmune characteristics of progressive or sudden sensorineural hearing loss. Autoimmunity 2009; 39:153-8. [PMID: 16698672 DOI: 10.1080/08916930500499599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune sensorineural hearing loss (ASNHL) is a clinical syndrome that typically produces a bilateral rapidly progressive hearing loss. Autoantibodies and autoreactive T cells have been implicated in the etiopathogenesis of ASNHL. However, the identity of a specific or highly relevant inner-ear self-antigen is still required. In recent years, a role for antiphospholipid antibodies has been also suggested, assuming sudden/progressive hearing loss to be part of the primary antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). In this review, we address the need for specific diagnostic tools in order to establish an autoimmune origin for hearing loss. Moreover, the decision of whether anti-inflammatory drugs or anti-coagulation should be given is also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D Yehudai
- Bnai-Zion Medical Center Affiliated with the Technion Faculty of Medicine, Division of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Haifa, Israel
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Hervier B, Bordure P, Masseau A, Calais C, Agard C, Hamidou M. [Auto-immune sensorineural deafness: physiopathology and therapeutic approach]. Rev Med Interne 2009; 31:222-8. [PMID: 19233519 DOI: 10.1016/j.revmed.2008.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2008] [Revised: 11/29/2008] [Accepted: 12/10/2008] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Sensorineural hearing loss may be due to an autoimmune mechanism. The mechanisms that could induce autoimmune inner ear damage are now better understood, but are not exclusive. Moreover, there is no specific immunologic test available for the diagnosis of autoimmune sensorineural hearing loss, which could also complicate the disease course of other autoimmune systemic diseases. Thus, the incidence of sensorineural autoimmune hearing loss is probably underestimated. The aim of this study was to review the experimental immunologic data in favour of an autoimmune mechanism in this subgroup of sensorineural hearing loss: humoral specific response against inner ear (autoantibodies against a transmembrane transporter) and also cellular response (against cochlin: one of the major proteins expressed in the inner ear). The aim of this review was also to focus on clinical and epidemiological human data that provide evidence for an autoimmune etiopathogeny of some sensorineural hearing loss. Therapeutic options such as immunosuppressive treatments (oral corticosteroids and other immunosuppressive drugs, such as methotrexate and anti-TNFalpha) are also discussed.
Collapse
|
17
|
Lidar M, Carmel E, Kronenberg Y, Langevitz P. Hearing Loss as the Presenting Feature of Systemic Vasculitis. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2007; 1107:136-41. [PMID: 17804541 DOI: 10.1196/annals.1381.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Hearing loss, both sensorineural and conductive, is a well-recognized manifestation of systemic vasculitis, yet has only infrequently been described as its initial presentation. We describe three cases in which hearing loss preceded the diagnosis of systemic vasculitis by a period of a few weeks to more than 6 months. While steroid therapy was initiated immediately in one of the cases, comprehensive immunosuppressive therapy was given only after additional manifestations compatible with vasculitis appeared, allowing for a diagnosis of Wegener's granulomatosis in two of the cases and undifferentiated vasculitis, in the third. Hearing improved in all patients, albeit, residual dysfunction remained. Prompt referral for a complete rheumatologic workup in cases of unexplained hearing loss would allow for a timely diagnosis of a collagen vascular disease and facilitate early initiation of systemic therapy, possibly yielding better audiological results.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Merav Lidar
- Department of Internal Medicine F and Rheumatic Disease Unit, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
García-Berrocal JR, Ibáñez A, Rodríguez A, González-García JA, Verdaguer JM, Trinidad A, Ramírez-Camacho R. Alternatives to systemic steroid therapy for refractory immune-mediated inner ear disease: a physiopathologic approach. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol 2006; 263:977-82. [PMID: 16802138 DOI: 10.1007/s00405-006-0096-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2006] [Accepted: 05/20/2006] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Immune-mediated inner ear disease (IMIED) is one of the few forms of reversible sensorineural hearing loss. Corticosteroids-responsive patients are usually associated with hearing improvement. Due to the long clinical course of IMIED that frequently present recurrences (hearing loss and vertigo), alternatives to corticosteroids such as methotrexate and recently TNF-alpha blockers have been proposed. Likewise new procedures for delivering corticosteroids to the inner ear have been developed. The aim of this article is to assess the efficacy of methotrexate and transtympanic 6-methylprednisolone in refractory IMIED. From a database of 200 patients affected by IMIED, 16 selected patients with refractory disease were included in the present study. Five patients were treated with methotrexate and 11 by means of transtympanic injection of 6-methylprednisolone. All patients treated with methotrexate had an improvement in their vestibular symptoms. However, hearing loss did not improve. Most patients treated with local 6-methylprednisolone (68.75%) showed an improvement in hearing loss and vestibular symptoms. Methotrexate has been shown to be ineffective in maintaining long-term remissions of hearing relapses although patients presented an improvement in vestibular symptoms. However, transtympanic 6-methylprednisolone has been shown to be a safe, easy and useful therapy in refractory IMIED and it may actually become the first-line treatment for these patients based on the existence of glucocorticoid receptors and the possible targets of immune-mediated damage within the inner ear.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- José Ramón García-Berrocal
- Servicio de Otorrinolaringología, Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro, San Martin de Porres 4, 28035 Madrid, Spain.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Lobo D, Trinidad A, García-Berrocal JR, Verdaguer JM, Ramírez-Camacho R. TNFα blockers do not improve the hearing recovery obtained with glucocorticoid therapy in an autoimmune experimental labyrinthitis. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol 2006; 263:622-6. [PMID: 16547758 DOI: 10.1007/s00405-006-0027-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2005] [Accepted: 10/25/2005] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The effectiveness of etanercept [tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNFalpha) blocker] and corticoids in treating immuno-mediated inner ear disease (IMIED) was compared in an animal model of autoimmune labyrinthitis. IMIED is one of the few forms of sensorineural hearing loss that is reversible with proper medical treatment. While the effectiveness and usefulness of immunomodulating agents (corticosteroids) in treating IMIED have been demonstrated, TNFalpha antagonists, which inhibit granuloma formation in rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune diseases, have been considered as an alternative therapy. The efficacy of etanercept (anti-TNFalpha) was evaluated in a guinea pig model of experimental autoimmune labyrinthitis in which 25 guinea pigs were divided in a control group, which was used to document the rise in hearing thresholds following immunisation, and two experimental groups, which were treated with steroids (6-methylprednisolone) and anti-TNFalpha (etanercept), respectively, after the immunisation. Comparison of the auditory thresholds obtained by means of auditory brainstem response (ABR) revealed that the auditory thresholds of the two experimental groups were not statistically different (6-methylprednisolone: 41.5 dB, SD: 8.51; etanercept: 37.5 dB, SD: 7.91) and that both compared favourably with that of the control group (60 dB, SD: 7.91) at p=0.001. We therefore conclude that etanercept is as effective as glucocorticoids in an animal model of autoimmune labyrinthitis; however, the potential adverse effects and high price of the former advise against its use as an initial therapy for IMIED.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Lobo
- Ear Research Group, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, San Martín de Porres 4, 28035, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Tahera Y, Meltser I, Johansson P, Bian Z, Stierna P, Hansson AC, Canlon B. NF-κB mediated glucocorticoid response in the inner ear after acoustic trauma. J Neurosci Res 2006; 83:1066-76. [PMID: 16493680 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.20795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The inner ear of humans and experimental animals demonstrate an abundance of glucocorticoid receptors (GR). Glucocorticoids (GC) are widely used to treat different hearing disorders; yet the mechanisms of GC action on the inner ear are unknown. We demonstrate how GR can directly modulate hearing sensitivity in response to a moderate acoustic trauma that results in a hearing loss (10-30 dB). The GC agonist (dexamethasone) and the drugs (metyrapone + RU 486) showed opposing effects on hearing threshold shifts. GC agonist (dexamethasone) decreased the hearing threshold whereas pre-treatment with a GC synthesis inhibitor (metyrapone) in combination with a GR antagonist (RU 486) exacerbated auditory threshold shifts (25-60 dB) after acoustic trauma with statistically significant increase in GR mRNA and GR protein compared with the vehicle and acoustic trauma group. Acoustic trauma caused a significant increase in the nuclear transport of NF-kappaB, whereas pre-treatment with the drugs (metyrapone and RU 486) blocked NF-kappaB nuclear transport into spiral ganglion nuclei. An NF-kappaB inhibitor, pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate ammonium blocked the trauma-induced translocation of NF-kappaB and resulted in a hearing loss (45-60) dB. These results indicate that several factors define the responsiveness of the inner ear to GC, including the availability of ligand or receptor, and the nuclear translocation of GR and NF-kappaB. These findings will further our understanding of individual GC responsiveness to steroid treatment, and will help improve the development of pharmaceuticals to selectively target GR in the inner ear for individuals with increased sensitivity to acoustic trauma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yeasmin Tahera
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Akbayir N, Caliş AB, Alkim C, Sökmen HMM, Erdem L, Ozbal A, Bölükbaş F, Akbayir N. Sensorineural hearing loss in patients with inflammatory bowel disease: a subclinical extraintestinal manifestation. Dig Dis Sci 2005; 50:1938-45. [PMID: 16187200 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-005-2964-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2004] [Accepted: 02/17/2005] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Isolated case reports in which symptomatic hearing loss develops suddenly during the course of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have been reported, but the presence of subclinical sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) associated with IBD has been investigated in only two preliminary studies. In order to research this further, we aimed to investigate the presence of subclinical SNHL in IBD by comparison with a control group and to examine possible relations between the bowel disease parameters and hearing loss.Otoscopy, tympanometry, and pure tone audiometry were carried out in 39 patients with IBD (21 Crohn's disease [CD], 18 ulcerative colitis [UC]) and 25 healthy age- and sex-matched controls. All patients and control subjects had normal otoscopy findings and tympanometry was unremarkable, excluding middle ear disease and conductive hearing loss. Analysis of each frequency examined showed that the average hearing thresholds were increased significantly in the study group compared to those of the control group at higher frequencies (2, 4, and 8 kHz). When these parameters were compared with the control group according to subgroups of IBD, a significant difference was determined for the UC group at frequencies of 2, 4, and 8 kHz and for the CD group only at the frequency of 4 kHz. Although there was a trend of increment in SNHL as the age of the patient and duration and extent of UC increased, no significant correlation was observed between SNHL and these parameters or sex, activity, involvement site, medication history of IBD, and coexistence of other extraintestinal manifestations. In conclusion, it was demonstrated that a subclinical SNHL may be associated with UC and somewhat with CD, affecting mainly the high frequencies. In light of this finding, it may be advisable to investigate labyrinth functions as well as other extraintestinal manifestations in patients with IBD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nihat Akbayir
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sişli Etfal Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|