Vestibular Dysfunctions in Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Clinical characteristics and analysis of vestibular-evoked myogenic potentials in patients with sudden sensorineural hearing loss in different ages

BACKGROUND

Numerous studies have found that patients experiencing sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSHL), with or without accompanying vertigo, often show impaired vestibular function. However, there is a dearth of studies analyzing vestibular-evoked myogenic potentials (VEMPs) in SSHL patients across various age groups.

AIM

To investigate vestibular condition in SSHL patients across various age demographics.

METHODS

Clinical data of 84 SSHL patients were investigated retrospectively. Audiometry, cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (c-VEMPs), and ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (o-VEMPs) were conducted on these patients. Parameters assessed included the latencies of P1 and N1 waves, as well as the amplitudes of P1-N1 waves. Moreover, the study evaluated the influence of factors such as sex, affected side, configuration of hearing loss, and presence of accompanying vertigo.

RESULTS

Among the 84 SSHL patients, no significant differences were observed among the three groups in terms of gender, affected side, and the presence or absence of vertigo. Group II (aged 41-60 years) had the highest number of SSHL cases. The rates of absent o-VEMPs in the affected ears were 20.83%, 31.58%, and 22.72% for the three age groups, respectively, with no statistically significant difference among them. The rates of absent c-VEMPs in the affected ears were 8.3%, 34.21%, and 18.18% for the three age groups, respectively, with significant differences. In the unaffected ears, there were differences observed in the extraction rates of o-VEMPs in the unaffected ears among the age groups. In the three age groups, no significant differences were noted in the three age groups in the latencies of P1 and N1 waves or in the amplitude of N1-P1 waves for c-VEMPs and o-VEMPs, either on the affected side or on the unaffected side, across the three age groups.

CONCLUSION

The extraction rate of VEMPs is more valuable than parameters. Regardless of the presence of vertigo, vestibular organs are involved in SSHL. Notably, SSHL patients aged 41-60 appear more susceptible to damage to the inferior vestibular nerve and saccule.

Contemporary Review of Idiopathic Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss: Management and Prognosis

Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) is a rapid decline in auditory function that needs urgent medical management. Although etiologic factors, including viral infections, autoimmune diseases, and vascular issues, contribute to the understanding of SSNHL, the condition remains unclear in most cases. Systemic steroids are often used as the first-line treatment because they reduce inner ear inflammation; however, there remains numerous discussions about the effectiveness of alternative treatments. To predict hearing recovery is crucial in patients' counseling with factors, including delayed treatment, vertigo, and other health conditions, which indicate poor prognosis. Herein, we review contemporary research on the treatment approaches and outcome predictions of SSNHL to establish important guidelines for physicians in evaluating and treating patients with SSNHL.

Efficacy of high dose systemic versus combined (systemic and intratympanic) corticosteroid therapy in idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss: A prospective randomized trial and risk factor analysis

The pathophysiology and the proper treatment of idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSNHL) are an ongoing subject of debate. Locally or systemic administered corticosteroids are the most accepted drugs of treatment in reference to ISSNHL (idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss), however, no strong evidence nor guidelines regarding their effectiveness yet exists. In our prospective, randomized, controlled trial 78 participants were enrolled. Patients were randomly assigned based on the day of admission to two groups according to treatment: group SS (n = 43) received intravenous systemic methylprednisolone alone, and group CT (n = 35) received intratympanic dexamethasone + systemic methylprednisolone. The primary outcome was to compare the hearing outcomes between the treatment groups based on different, widely accepted categories (Siegel, Kanzaki, modified Siegel and PTA4 gain). In consideration of the secondary outcome, we examined the effect of the various risk factors on the hearing improvement. No differences were detected regarding hearing improvement between the two groups, based on any criteria [Siegel's criteria (p = 0.604); Kanzaki's criteria (p = 0.720); modified Siegel's criteria (p = 0.524) and PTA 4 gain (p = 0.569)]. However, several clinical factors such as vertigo (p = 0.039), or cardiovascular comorbidity (p = 0.02) and the severity of initial hearing loss (p = 0.033) were found to bear a significant impact upon the hearing outcome. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first randomized controlled trial comparing high dose systemic and combination corticosteroid therapy in ISSNHL patients. Our findings suggest coexisting cardiovascular comorbidity, vertigo and severity of the initial hearing loss may bear a significantly higher impact upon hearing improvement, than the additional intratympanic steroid administration. The presented trial was registered in the European Union Drug Regulating Authorities Clinical Trials Database (name: Combinated systemic and intratympanic steroid therapy in idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss, No.: 2017-000658-20) and with the ethical approval of The National Institute of Pharmacy and Nutrition (OGYÉI) (protocol No.: 7621, on 2017.02.16.).

Vestibular mapping in Ramsay-Hunt syndrome and idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss

PURPOSE

To observe vestibular impairment patterns in patients with Ramsay Hunt syndrome with dizziness (RHS_D) and sudden sensorineural hearing loss with dizziness (SSNHL_D) using hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) to interpret results with possible mechanisms.

METHODS

The data of 30 RHS_D and 81 SSNHL_D patients from January 2017 to August 2022 in a single tertiary referral center were retrospectively analyzed. Video head impulse test (vHIT) and vestibular evoked myogenic potential (VEMP) were used for vestibular analysis of peripheral vestibular organs, and the results of vHIT and VEMP were analyzed. HCA was used to analyze vestibular impairment patterns.

RESULTS

In RHS_D patients, the lateral semicircular canal (LSCC) was the most impaired semicircular canal (SCC), followed by the anterior semicircular canal (ASCC) and the posterior semicircular canal (PSCC), and the utricle was more impaired than the saccule. In SSNHL_D patients, the PSCC was the most impaired SCC, followed by the LSCC and the ASCC, and the utricle was more impaired than the saccule. In HCA of RHS_D patients, the ASCC and utricle were initially clustered, followed by the LSCC, PSCC and saccule in order. In the HCA of SSNHL_D patients, the PSCC was solely merged and independently clustered.

CONCLUSION

There were different patterns of vestibular impairments between RHS_D and SSNHL_D patients. The vestibular analysis and HCA results of SSNHL_D showed tendency of skip lesion, which could be explained by vascular pathophysiology.

A Comparative Study Using Vestibular Mapping in Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss With and Without Vertigo

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the impairment patterns in peripheral vestibular organs in sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) with and without vertigo.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective study.

SETTING

Single tertiary medical center.

METHODS

Data from 165 SSNHL patients in a tertiary referral center from January 2017 to December 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. All patients underwent a video head impulse test, vestibular evoked myogenic potential test, and pure-tone audiometry. Hierarchical cluster analysis was performed to investigate vestibular impairment patterns. The prognosis of the hearing was determined using American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery recommendations.

RESULTS

After excluding patients with vestibular schwannoma and Meniere's disease, 152 patients were included in this study. A total of 73 of 152 patients were categorized as SSNHL with vertigo (SSNHL_V) and showed an independent merge of the posterior semicircular canal (PSCC) in cluster analysis. A total of 79 of 152 patients were categorized as SSNHL without vertigo (SSNHL_N) and showed an independent merge of saccule in cluster analysis. The PSCC (56.2%) and saccule (20.3%) were the most frequently impaired vestibular organs in SSNHL_V and SSNHL_N, respectively. In terms of prognosis, 106 of 152 patients had partial/no recovery and showed an independent merge of the PSCC in cluster analysis. A total of 46 of 152 patients had a complete recovery and showed an independent merge of the saccule in cluster analysis.

CONCLUSION

A tendency of isolated PSCC dysfunction was seen in SSNHL_V and partial/no recovery. A tendency of isolated saccular dysfunction was seen in SSNHL_N and complete recovery. Different treatments might be needed in SSNHL depending on the presence of vertigo.

Prognosis of vestibular dysfunction in idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss with vertigo: a prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Approximately 28%-57% of patients with idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSNHL) have an acute vertigo attack and probable vestibular dysfunction; however, the prognosis of vestibular function in these patients remains unclear.

METHODS

A prospective cohort study of patients with ISSNHL and vertigo was conducted to evaluate the prognosis of vestibular function, especially the roles of peripheral vestibular restoration and central compensation, in patients with ISSNHL and vertigo. Clinical data were recorded at baseline and at 60 days from onset in participants with unilateral ISSNHL with vertigo. Enrolment occurred from May 1, 2019 to May 1, 2022 in the outpatient clinics and inpatient departments of the Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University in Shanghai. The primary outcome measure was the recovery rate of vestibular function 60 days after onset as assessed by vestibular function tests, including caloric tests, cervical and ocular vestibular-evoked myogenic potential tests (cVEMP, oVEMP), video head impulse tests (vHIT), and sensory organization tests (SOT). The secondary outcome measure was the recovery of subjective evaluations in vestibular dysfunction (the dizziness handicap inventory [DHI], and the visual analogue scale for vertigo [VAS-V]) and hearing assessments (pure-tone audiometry [PTA]).

RESULTS

Overall, 86 patients were recruited, with an average duration of disease of 11.7 days and follow-up time of 60.7 days. Vestibular function was significantly improved (p < 0.05) after 60 days. The recovery rates were 100% for anterior semicircular canal (ASC), 56% for posterior semicircular canal (PSC), 41% for horizontal semicircular canal (HSC), 28% for saccule, and 23% for utricle. The recovery of vestibular function was not significantly related to changes in DHI (p = 0.245), VAS-V score (p = 0.509), or hearing outcome (p = 0.390).

CONCLUSIONS

Restoration of peripheral vestibular sensory input and central vestibular compensation can occur during the course of ISSNHL with vertigo. The otolith organs are at a higher risk of being affected and have worse recovery than the semicircular canals. Incomplete and in-process restoration of vestibular dysfunction may perturb and delay the establishment of central compensation for balance. Neither hearing outcomes nor subjective vestibular symptoms are related to recovery from vestibular dysfunction.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov (identifier NCT03951584).

Congruence and incongruence on the radiological and functional examination of inner ear hemorrhage

BACKGROUND

Inner ear hemorrhage (IEH) is an increasingly recognized cochlear lesion that can cause sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is known to be the best imaging modality for clarifying the causes of SNHL and providing images that point to those causes.

AIMS

Evaluate the lesional patterns in patients with presumed Inner ear hemorrhage (IEH) from radiological and functional aspects.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 10 patients performed in our institution from 2014 to 2020, with suspected labyrinthine hemorrhage based on radiological and functional examination.

RESULTS

We included 8 patients with IEH and sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). The median age was 55 years (range: 3 months - 78 years). The results from the MRI and functional tests were compared for each end-organ. Only three cases (37.5%) showed a correlation between signal abnormalities and dysfunction in the labyrinthine apparatus.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with SNHL inner ear hemorrhage needs to be ruled out in the differential diagnosis, so specific MRI sequences should be requested. It represents a way to a better understanding of the disorder and the variety of findings claim for a complete auditory and vestibular testing.

Subtle alterations of vestibulomotor functioning in conductive hearing loss

Introduction

Conductive hearing loss (CHL) attenuates the ability to transmit air conducted sounds to the ear. In humans, severe hearing loss is often accompanied by alterations to other neural systems, such as the vestibular system; however, the inter-relations are not well understood. The overall goal of this study was to assess vestibular-related functioning proxies in a rat CHL model.

Methods

Male Sprague-Dawley rats (N=134, 250g, 2months old) were used in a CHL model which produced a >20dB threshold shift induced by tympanic membrane puncture. Auditory brainstem response (ABRs) recordings were used to determine threshold depth at different times before and after CHL. ABR threshold depths were assessed both manually and by an automated ABR machine learning algorithm. Vestibular-related functioning proxy assessment was performed using the rotarod, balance beam, elevator vertical motion (EVM) and Ferris-wheel rotation (FWR) assays.

Results

The Pre-CHL (control) threshold depth was 27.92dB±11.58dB compared to the Post-CHL threshold depth of 50.69dB±13.98dB (mean±SD) across the frequencies tested. The automated ABR machine learning algorithm determined the following threshold depths: Pre-CHL=24.3dB, Post-CHL same day=56dB, Post-CHL 7 days=41.16dB, and Post-CHL 1 month=32.5dB across the frequencies assessed (1, 2, 4, 8, 16, and 32kHz). Rotarod assessment of motor function was not significantly different between pre and post-CHL (~1week) rats for time duration (sec) or speed (RPM), albeit the former had a small effect size difference. Balance beam time to transverse was significantly longer for post-CHL rats, likely indicating a change in motor coordination. Further, failure to cross was only noted for CHL rats. The defection count was significantly reduced for CHL rats compared to control rats following FWR, but not EVM. The total distance traveled during open-field examination after EVM was significantly different between control and CHL rats, but not for FWR. The EVM is associated with linear acceleration (acting in the vertical plane: up-down) stimulating the saccule, while the FWR is associated with angular acceleration (centrifugal rotation about a circular axis) stimulating both otolith organs and semicircular canals; therefore, the difference in results could reflect the specific vestibular-organ functional role.

Discussion

Less movement (EVM) and increase time to transverse (balance beam) may be associated with anxiety and alterations to defecation patterns (FWR) may result from autonomic disturbances due to the impact of hearing loss. In this regard, vestibulomotor deficits resulting in changes in balance and motion could be attributed to comodulation of auditory and vestibular functioning. Future studies should manipulate vestibular functioning directly in rats with CHL.

The functional status of vestibular otolith and conductive pathway in patients with unilateral idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss

Background

The cause of idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSNHL) remains unknown. It has been found that the functional status of the vestibular otolith is relevant to its prognosis; however, the evaluation of the vestibular otolith (intra-labyrinth) and superior and inferior vestibular nerve pathways (retro-labyrinth) in ISSNHL patients is not well-documented.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the functional status of the vestibular otolith and conductive pathway in patients with unilateral ISSNHL and analyze the correlations between vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (VEMPs) and hearing improvement after treatment.

Methods

A total of 50 patients with unilateral ISSNHL underwent a battery of audio-vestibular evaluations, including pure tone audiometry, middle ear function, air-conducted sound-cervical VEMP (ACS-cVEMP), ACS-ocular VEMP (ACS-oVEMP), galvanic vestibular stimulation-cervical VEMP (GVS-cVEMP), and GVS-ocular VEMP (GVS-oVEMP). The results of auditory and VEMPs were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

The abnormal rates of ACS-cVEMP, ACS-oVEMP, GVS-cVEMP, and GVS-oVEMP in affected ears were 30, 52, 8, and 16%, respectively. In affected ears, the abnormal rate of ACS-oVEMP was significantly higher than that of ACS-cVEMP (p = 0.025), while it was similar between GVS-cVEMP and GVS-oVEMP (p = 0.218). Compared with GVS-cVEMP, affected ears presented with a significantly higher abnormal rate of ACS-cVEMP (p = 0.005), and the abnormal rate of ACS-oVEMP was significantly higher than that of GVS-oVEMP (p < 0.001). No significant difference existed in latency and amplitude between affected and unaffected ears in ACS-VEMPs or GVS-VEMPs (p > 0.05). The abnormal rate of VEMPs in the poor recovery group was significantly higher than that of the good recovery group (p = 0.040). The abnormality percentages of ACS-oVEMP and GVS-oVEMP in the poor recovery group were significantly higher than that of the good recovery group (p = 0.004 and 0.039, respectively). The good hearing recovery rates were 76.47% in the normal VEMPs group, 58.33% in the intra-labyrinth lesion group, and 22.22% in the retro-labyrinth lesion group. Hearing recovery worsened as a greater number of abnormal VEMPs was presented.

Conclusion

Besides Corti's organ, the impairment of otolithic organs was prominent in patients with ISSNHL. The normal VEMPs group had the highest rate of good recovery, followed by the intra-labyrinth lesion group and the retro-labyrinth lesion group presented with the lowest recovery rate. Abnormalities in ACS-oVEMP and/or GVS-oVEMP were indicators of a poor prognosis.

Nomogram for predicting the prognostic role in idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss

PURPOSE

A nomogram model was constructed to assist in early prediction of idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSHL) prognosis. Additionally, this study contributed to evaluating and analyzing the usefulness of the nomogram model in ISSHL clinical intervention.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was performed concerning 355 ISSHL patients who were hospitalized between June 2021 and August 2022. Single-factor analysis was used to filter variables, which were subsequently used for multivariate analysis to construct a nomogram. The discriminative capability and clinical usefulness of the predictive model were estimated by calculating the area under the curve (AUC), calibration curve, and decision curve analysis (DCA).

RESULTS

Hearing loss type, duration from onset to treatment, vertigo, periauricular paresthesia, and batroxobin use were included in the nomogram for ISSHL. The predictive model showed fair discrimination values (AUC =0.764; 95%CI: 0.715-0.813) and was well-calibrated, the C-index was 0.746 (95%CI: 0.715-0.793) in the internal validation. DCA indicated that the model was also clinically beneficial when the threshold range was between 0.246 and 0.840.

CONCLUSIONS

The nomogram prediction model may have potential clinical practicability in effectively assisting clinicians in predicting ISSHL prognosis and optimizing treatment protocols.

Artificial Neural Network-Assisted Classification of Hearing Prognosis of Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss With Vertigo

This study aimed to determine the impact on hearing prognosis of the coherent frequency with high magnitude-squared wavelet coherence (MSWC) in video head impulse test (vHIT) among patients with sudden sensorineural hearing loss with vertigo (SSNHLV) undergoing high-dose steroid treatment. This study was a retrospective cohort study. SSNHLV patients treated at our referral center from December 2016 to December 2020 were examined. The cohort comprised 64 patients with SSNHLV undergoing high-dose steroid treatment. MSWC was measured by calculating the wavelet coherence analysis (WCA) at various frequencies from a vHIT. The hearing prognosis were analyzed using a multivariable Cox regression model and convolution neural network (CNN) of WCA. There were 64 patients with a male-to-female ratio of 1:1.67. The greater highest coherent frequency of the posterior semicircular canal (SCC) was associated with the complete recovery (CR) of hearing. After adjustment for other factors, the result remained robust (hazard ratio [HR] 2.11, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.86-2.35). In the feature extraction with Resnet-50 and proceeding SVM in the horizontal image cropping style, the classification accuracy [STD] for (CR vs. partial + no recovery [PR + NR]), (over-sampling of CR vs. PR + NR), (extensive data extraction of CR vs. PR + NR), and (interpolation of time series of CR vs. PR + NR) were 83.6% [7.4], 92.1% [6.8], 88.9% [7.5], and 91.6% [6.4], respectively. The high coherent frequency of the posterior SCC was a significantly independent factor that was associated with good hearing prognosis in the patients who have SSNHLV. WCA may be provided with comprehensive ability in vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR) evaluation. CNN could be utilized to classify WCA, predict treatment outcomes, and facilitate vHIT interpretation. Feature extraction in CNN with proceeding SVM and horizontal cropping style of wavelet coherence plot performed better accuracy and offered more stable model for hearing outcomes in patients with SSNHLV than pure CNN classification. Clinical and Translational Impact Statement-High coherent frequency in vHIT results in good hearing outcomes in SSNHLV and facilitates AI classification.

Comorbidities and laboratory changes of sudden sensorineural hearing loss: a review

Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) is defined as an abrupt hearing loss of more than 30 dB in three contiguous frequencies within 72 h. It is an emergency disease requiring immediate diagnosis and treatment. The incidence of SSNHL in Western countries' population is estimated between 5 and 20 per 1,00,000 inhabitants. The etiology of SSNHL remains unknown. Due to the uncertainty of the cause of SSNHL, at present, no specific treatment targets the cause of SSNHL, resulting in poor efficacy. Previous studies have reported that some comorbidities are risk factors for SSNHL, and some laboratory results may provide some clues for the etiology of SSNHL. Atherosclerosis, microthrombosis, inflammation, and the immune system may be the main etiological factors for SSNHL. This study confirms that SSNHL is a multifactorial disease. Some comorbidities, such as virus infections, are suggested to be the causes of SSNHL. In summary, by analyzing the etiology of SSNHL, more targeting treatments should be used to achieve a better effect.

Significance of Baseline Inferior Vestibular Function on the Prognosis of Patients with Labyrinthitis

OBJECTIVE

Acute spontaneous vertigo with idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSNHL) can be diagnosed as labyrinthitis, which has a poorer prognosis than ISSNHL without vertigo. Thus, we aimed to identify the effect of the baseline vestibular function on the prognosis of labyrinthitis.

METHODS

A total of 23 patients with labyrinthitis was retrospectively divided into the recovered group (complete recovery, partial recovery) and the nonrecovered group (slight improvement, no improvement). Differences in caloric weakness and gain in the video head impulse test (vHIT) between the two groups were compared. In addition, the prognostic value of the vHIT on each of the three semicircular canals in predicting hearing recovery was analyzed using a linear regression model.

RESULTS

In final pure-tone audiometry, 2 patients (8.70%) exhibited complete recovery, 4 patients (17.39%) had partial recovery, and 17 patients (73.91%) had slight or no improvement. The initial ipsilesional posterior canal (iPC) gain and the contralesional anterior canal (cAC) gain were significantly decreased in the nonrecovered group (p < 0.013 for iPC and p < 0.007 for cAC, Mann-Whitney U test). The mean hearing gain was positively correlated with the iPC gain (R2 = 0.36, p = 0.003, Spearman correlation analysis).

CONCLUSION

An abnormal iPC gain may be a poor prognostic factor for hearing recovery. Additionally, the vHIT on the three semicircular canals can provide prognosis and insights into the pathophysiological mechanisms in patients with labyrinthitis.

Vestibular assessment in sudden sensorineural hearing loss: Role in the prediction of hearing outcome and in the early detection of vascular and hydropic pathomechanisms

Introduction

Predicting hearing outcome in sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) is challenging, as well as detecting the underlying pathomechanisms. SSNHL could be associated with vestibular damage since cochleo-vestibular structures share the same vascularization, along with being in close anatomical proximity. Whereas viral inflammations and autoimmune/vascular disorders most likely represent the involved aetiologies, early-stage Menière's disease (MD) can also present with SSNHL. Since an early treatment could beneficially influence hearing outcome, understanding the possible etiology plays a pivotal role in orienting the most appropriate treatment. We aimed to evaluate the extent of vestibular damage in patients presenting with SSNHL with or without vertigo, investigate the prognostic role of vestibular dysfunctions on hearing recovery and detect specific lesion patterns related to the underlying pathomechanisms.

Methods

We prospectively evaluated 86 patients with SSNHL. Audio-vestibular investigation included pure-tone/speech/impedance audiometry, cervical/ocular-VEMPs, vHIT and video-Frenzel examination. White matter lesions (WML) were evaluated on brain-MRI. Patients were followed-up and divided into "SSNHL-no-vertigo," "SSNHL+vertigo" and "MD" subgroups.

Results

Hearing was more impaired in "SSNHL+vertigo" patients who exhibited either down-sloping or flat-type audiograms, and was less impaired in "MD" where low frequencies were mostly impaired (p < 0.001). Otolith receptors were more frequently involved than semicircular canals (SCs). Although the "SSNHL-no-vertigo" subgroup exhibited the lowest vestibular impairment (p < 0.001), 52% of patients developed otolith dysfunctions and 72% developed nystagmus. Only "MD" subjects showed anterior SC impairment and upbeating spontaneous/positional nystagmus. They more frequently exhibited cervical-VEMPs frequency tuning (p = 0.036) and ipsilesional spontaneous nystagmus (p < 0.001). "SSNHL+vertigo" subjects presented with more frequently impaired cervical-VEMPs and posterior SC and with higher number of impaired receptors (p < 0.001). They mainly exhibited contralesional spontaneous and vibration-induced nystagmus (p < 0.05) and only they showed the highest WML score and "vascular" lesion patterns (p < 0.001). Concerning the outcomes, hearing was better in "MD" and worse in "SSNHL+vertigo" (p < 0.001). Hearing recovery was mostly affected by cervical-VEMPs impairment and the number of involved receptors (p < 0.05). Patients with "vascular" lesion patterns presented with the highest HL degree and WML score (p ≤ 0.001), while none of them exhibited a complete hearing recovery (p = 0.026).

Conclusions

Our data suggest that vestibular evaluation in SSNHL can provide useful information on hearing recovery and underlying aetiologies.

Evaluation of the Recovery of Idiopathic Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss Based on Estimated Hearing Disorders

Various prognostic factors for idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) have been reported. Hearing loss directly derived from idiopathic SSNHL is important for understanding underlying pathogenesis and outcomes. We assessed the usefulness of evaluating hearing loss and recovery of idiopathic SSNHL on the basis of estimated hearing loss. The study included 115 patients whose characteristics and outcomes of hearing loss were investigated. The effects of vertigo/dizziness and age on hearing thresholds before/after treatment, nonaffected ear threshold, estimated hearing loss, improvement of hearing loss, and estimated remaining hearing loss were investigated. Vertigo/dizziness was a significant prognostic factor for hearing. In vertigo/dizziness patients, significantly more severe hearing loss and poorer improvement of hearing loss were observed above 500 Hz and below 1000 Hz, respectively. Severe hearing disorder remained at all frequencies. Conversely, post-treatment thresholds were significantly higher in the older population (≥65 years), although no differences in pretreatment thresholds were observed between the younger (≤64 years) and older populations. However, on the basis of nonaffected ear thresholds, previously existing hearing loss could have influenced the outcome. Thus, comparison of hearing outcomes between affected and nonaffected ears is essential for understanding hearing loss and outcomes in idiopathic SSNHL cases with existing hearing disorder.

Prognostic factors in elderly patients after an intra-tympanic steroid injection for idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss

BACKGROUND

Idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSNHL) presents with emergent hearing impairment and is mainly treated with steroids. However, limited data exist regarding the prognostic factors among elderly patients (>65 years old) who receive an intra-tympanic steroid injection (ITSI). Therefore, we investigated the prognostic factors in these patients.

METHODS

Between July 2016 and March 2022, we retrospectively enrolled 105 elderly patients (>65 years old) with unilateral ISSNHL who were treated with an ITSI, and recorded their clinical and audiological variables.

RESULTS

The patients had a mean age of 72.03 ± 6.33 years and mean hearing level gain of 22.86 ± 21.84 dB, speech reception threshold (SRT) gain of 15.77 ± 35.27 dB, and speech discrimination score (SDS) gain of 19.54 ± 27.81 %. According to Siegel's criteria, 5 (4.76 %), 44 (41.91 %), 46 (43.81 %), and 10 (9.52 %) patients had complete recovery, partial recovery, slight improvement, and no improvement, respectively. In the univariate analysis, vertigo (odds ratio [OR] = 0.290, 95 % confidence interval [CI]: 0.130-0.651, p = 0.002) and profound hearing loss on pure tone audiometry (PTA; OR = 0.233, 95 % CI: 0.101-0.536, p = 0.004) were negative prognostic factors among elderly ISSNHL patients. In the multivariate analysis, vertigo (OR = 0.300, 95 % CI: 0.128-0.705, p = 0.005) and profound pure tone audiometry (OR = 0.240, 95 % CI: 0.101-0.570, p = 0.001) were independent adverse prognostic factors among elderly ISSNHL patients.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrated the treatment outcomes of 105 elderly ISSNHL patients after an ITSI. Vertigo and profound PTA are independent adverse risk factors among elderly ISSNHL patients, and patients with these risk factors require active treatment.

Vestibular function assessment in sudden hearing loss

OBJECTIVES

To perform vestibular assessment using cervical and ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potential, video head impulse test and caloric testing in patients with sudden hearing loss. Moreover, to evaluate the correlation of dizziness with vestibular tests and the correlation of vestibular tests with hearing prognosis.

METHODS

This is an observational, longitudinal and prospective study, including participants diagnosed with sudden hearing loss. The participants underwent cervical and ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potential, video head impulse test and caloric testing. The audiometric assessment was performed at the beginning and at the end of the follow-up. A value of p≤0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Seventeen patients were included in the study sample, with a mean age of 45.4±11.1 years. Five participants (29.41%) had dizziness and 15 (88.23%) had tinnitus. All participants underwent vestibular evaluation through cervical and ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potential and video head impulse test, and 13 of them were evaluated through caloric testing. The cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potential was considered altered in five (29.41%) participants, while 11 (64.71%) showed alterations at the ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potential. The video head impulse test and the caloric testing were considered altered in seven (41.18%) and five (38.46%) participants, respectively. There was no statistically significant correlation between the clinical data and the results of vestibular tests or hearing recovery, nor between the results of vestibular tests and hearing recovery.

CONCLUSION

The assessment through vestibular evoked myogenic potential, video head impulse test and caloric testing showed vestibular involvement in some participants. However, it cannot be stated that the results of the vestibular tests are related to the hearing prognosis of sudden hearing loss.

Labyrinthine lesions in presumed inner ear hemorrhage-related sudden deafness

PURPOSE

Inner ear hemorrhage (IEH) is a rare cause of sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL). This study aimed to evaluate the lesional patterns in patients with presumed IEH from morphological and functional aspects.

METHODS

Seventeen patients with SSNHL and presumed IEH who completed audio-vestibular tests were included. The main outcome measures included clinical characteristics, radiology, and functional test results.

RESULTS

The morphological findings and functional tests revealed differences in locations and lesional spectrums. The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) hyperintensity was likely to involve the vestibule (88.2%), the cochlea (76.5%), and the posterior and lateral semicircular canals (76.5% and 70.6%, respectively). Furthermore, 70.6% of cases showed abnormality in the entire labyrinth, and abnormalities in the vestibule/semicircular canals were observed in 17.6% of cases. Meanwhile, dysfunction was sequentially detected in the cochlea (100%), semicircular canals (94.1%), and vestibule (70.6%); 64.7% of cases showed combined deficit in the entire labyrinth, and 29.4% of cases showed combined deficit in the cochlea/semicircular canals. Although lesions in the labyrinth were frequently detected, the results of the radiological and functional tests did not always match and significantly differed in either cochlear or superior semicircular canal damage detection (p < 0.05 each).

CONCLUSIONS

In this cohort, IEH preferentially caused sudden audio-vestibular impairment, which was well demonstrated by a combination of MRI and functional tests. The specific lesional configurations revealed in this study may suggest a possible pathomechanism that could be further explored as a therapeutic target.

Vestibular Function in Children and Adults Before and After Unilateral or Sequential Bilateral Cochlear Implantation

Background: Cochlear implantation (CI) helps patients with severe or profound sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) restore hearing and speech abilities. However, some patients exhibit abnormal vestibular functions with symptoms such as dizziness or balance disorders, after CI. Whether age at CI and CI approach (unilateral or sequential bilateral) affect vestibular functions in users with cochlear implants remains unclear.

Objectives: To investigate the vestibular functions in children and adults before and after unilateral or sequential bilateral CI.

Materials and Methods: Thirty-seven patients with severe or profound SNHL who were candidates for a first- or second-side CI were divided into three groups: first-side CI-implanted adults (≥18 years), first-side CI-implanted children (6–17 years), and second-side CI-implanted children (6–17 years). All cases were implanted with the round window approach to minimize damage to the intra-cochlear structures. The caloric test, vestibular evoked myogenic potential (VEMP) test, video head impulse test (vHIT), Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI), Pediatric Vestibular Symptom Questionnaire (PVSQ), and audiometric tests were performed before and 1 month after CI.

Results: The abnormal rates of caloric test and VEMP test after CI in the first-side CI-implanted adults and children significantly increased compared with those before CI. The pre-implantation VEMP test showed significantly higher abnormal rates between first- and second-side CI-implanted children. No other significant differences of abnormal rates between first- and second-side CI-implanted children or between first-side CI-implanted adults and children were found. In second-side CI-implanted children, PVSQ scores significantly increased at day 3 post-implantation but decreased at day 30.

Conclusion: CI has a negative effect on the results of caloric and VEMP tests, but not on vHIT, indicating that the otolith and low-frequency semicircular canal (SCC) are more vulnerable to damage from CI. The alterations of vestibular functions resulting from CI surgery may be independent of age at CI and CI approach (unilateral or sequential bilateral). Long-term impacts on the vestibular function from CI surgery, as well as the chronic electrical stimulation to the cochlea, are still to be investigated.

Association Between Hearing Characteristics/Prognosis and Vestibular Function in Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss With Vertigo

Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) patients with vertigo have a poorer prognosis. However, the factors associated with hearing recovery remain uncertain. This retrospective study was to evaluate the association between hearing characteristics/hearing recovery and the patterns of vestibulocochlear lesions in SSNHL patients with vertigo. Patients were classified into groups according to the patterns of vestibular dysfunction. We not only compared hearing characteristics and prognosis among subgroups but also determined the potential association between vestibular lesion location and hearing recovery. The shapes of the audiogram differed significantly between patients with normal vestibular function and patients with vestibular dysfunction (p = 0.022). Patients whose audiogram indicated profound hearing loss were 3.89 times more likely to have vestibular dysfunction than those whose audiogram shape indicated low-frequency hearing loss (95% CI, 1.02–14.86, p = 0.047). Patients who had saccule dysfunction were 0.11 times as likely to have hearing recovery than those who had normal saccule function (95% CI, 0.11–0.31, p = 0.001). When adjusted for sex and age, patients who had saccule dysfunction were 0.07 times as likely to have hearing recovery than those who had normal saccule function (95% CI, 0.02–0.22, p = 0.001). Abnormal results following cVEMP testing may be a potential predictive factor for poor hearing recovery.

Vestibular prognosis in idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss with vestibular dysfunction treated with oral or intratympanic glucocorticoids: a protocol for randomized controlled trial

Background

Idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSNHL) is a rapid-onset sensorineural hearing impairment with unclear etiology and unsatisfying treatment effects. Vestibular dysfunction has been considered as a poor indicator in the clinical manifestations and prognosis of ISSNHL, which occurred in approximately 28–57% cases. Glucocorticoids, administered through oral or intratympanic way, are currently regularly and standardly applied for ISSNHL to improve the hearing outcome. However, the vestibular prognosis of ISSNHL after routine treatments remains seldom explored. This study aims to compare the effectiveness of oral and intratympanic glucocorticoids in ISSNHL with vestibular dysfunction in terms of the pattern and trajectory of possible process of vestibular function recovery.

Methods/design

A randomized, outcome-assessor- and analyst-blinded, controlled, clinical trial (RCT) will be carried out. Seventy-two patients with ISSNHL complaining of vestibular dysfunction appearing as vertigo or imbalance will be recruited and randomized into either oral or intratympanic glucocorticoid therapy group with a 1:1 allocation ratio. The primary outcomes will be vestibular function outcomes assessed by sensory organization test, caloric test, video head impulse test, cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potential, and ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potential; the secondary outcomes include self-reported vestibular dysfunction symptoms; dizziness-related handicap, visual analogue scale for vertigo and tinnitus; and pure tone audiometry. Assessments of primary outcomes will be performed at baseline and at 4 and 8 weeks post-randomization, while assessments of secondary outcomes will be performed at baseline and 1, 2, 4, and 8 weeks post-randomization.

Discussion

Previous intervention studies of ISSNHL included only hearing outcomes, with little attention paid on the prognosis of vestibular dysfunction. This trial will be the first RCT study focusing on the progress and prognosis of vestibular dysfunction in ISSNHL. The efficacy of two commonly used therapies of glucocorticoids will be compared in both auditory and vestibular function fields, rather than in the hearing outcome alone.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03974867. Registered on 23 July 2019

Comparisons among vestibular examinations and symptoms of vertigo in sudden sensorineural hearing loss patients

OBJECTIVES

Vertigo in sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) is hypothesized as an extension of the disease caused by the anatomical proximity of the cochlea and vestibule. The present study aimed to demonstrate the association of vestibular function test (VFT) results with SSNHL disease severity and prognosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study assessed clinical records of 263 SSNHL patients admitted to our hospital, between January 2010 and October 2017. Steroid treatment comprised high-dose intravenous dexamethasone (16 mg/d) or oral methylprednisolone (64 mg/d) for 4 days and tapered oral methylprednisolone for 8 days after discharge. Caloric tests were performed in all patients, and cervical vestibular-evoked myogenic potential (c-VEMP) and ocular VEMP (o-VEMP) tests were performed in 209 and 144 patients, respectively.

RESULTS

Ninety six patients had vertigo, and caloric abnormalities were observed in 119 patients. Initial PTA in patients with vertigo were worse than in those without vertigo (63.0 dB vs 72.7 dB, P = .002). Initial PTA in patients with abnormal o-VEMP was worse than in those with normal o-VEMP (61.4 dB vs 73.0 dB, P = .004). PTA improvement after steroid treatment in patients with vertigo was lower than in those without vertigo (25.0 dB vs 20.9 dB, P = .028). PTA improvement after treatment in patients with abnormal caloric results was lower than in those with normal caloric results (26.0 dB vs 18.4 dB, P = .013).

CONCLUSION

The functions of vestibular organs, particularly the utricle and lateral semicircular canal, are associated with disease severity and hearing outcome in SSNHL patients.

Clinical implications of posterior semicircular canal function in idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss

Predicting hearing outcomes in idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSNHL) is still challenging. We hypothesized that assessment of the semicircular canal (SCC) function via the video head impulse test (vHIT) might provide prognostic information. The medical records of patients diagnosed with ISSNHL from January 2015 to December 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. The prognostic values of the vHIT and other previously known factors in predicting hearing recovery were analyzed using a logistic regression model. A total of 148 patients with normal contra-lesional hearing were analyzed. Fifty-seven patients exhibited low gain (<0.7) on the vHIT in at least one SCC, more than the number of patients complaining of dizziness. Multivariable analysis revealed that non-recovery of normal hearing was associated with older age (OR 1.040), worse canal paresis on the caloric test (OR 1.023), worse initial hearing thresholds (OR 1.045) and abnormal vHIT result in the posterior SCC (OR 3.670). Low vHIT gain in the posterior SCC had specificity of 94.4% and positive predictive value of 85.7% in predicting non-recovery of normal hearing. In conclusion, abnormal vHIT gain in the posterior SCC appears to be a specific prognostic factor for incomplete hearing recovery in ISSNHL.

Analysis of Clinical and Laboratory Findings of Idiopathic Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss

Idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSNHL) is an emergency disease requiring immediate diagnosis and treatment. The incidence of ISSNHL in the Western countries’ population was estimated to 5–20 per 100,000 inhabitants. The etiology of ISSNHL remains unknown. Its pathogenesis is most often suggested to be due to a disturbed microcirculation and infection. Previous studies have reported that comorbidities, including hypertension, diabetes mellitus (DM), and hyperfibrinogenemia are risk factors of ISSNHL. This study aimed at investigating the clinical characteristics, laboratory parameters and comorbidities of patients with ISSNHL. Our study suggests that the annual incidence of ISSNHL in China mainland is 19 per 100 000. The clinical characteristics and prevalence of comorbidities of ISSNHL patients are different according to age distribution and hearing results. Moreover, the patients with vertigo, hypertension, DM and high TG suffered more often from severe hearing loss compared with the counterparts. This indicates that the cardiovascular and metabolic diseases (hypertension and hyperlipidemia) appeared to be closely associated with the occurrence and severity of ISSNHL.

Vestibular evoked myogenic potentials in the prognosis of sudden hearing loss ‒ a systematic review

INTRODUCTION

Sudden hearing loss is an otorhinolaryngological emergency that often leads to severe damage to the auditory and vestibular function. The vestibular evoked myogenic potential is a test that allows a noninvasive evaluation of the otolithic system function and vestibulospinal and vestibulo-ocular pathways.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the importance of vestibular evoked myogenic potential in determining the prognosis of patients with sudden hearing loss.

METHODS

A search for articles published up to December 2018 was performed in the PubMed, Cochrane, VHL and LILACS databases using MeSH descriptors. Retrospective and prospective articles were included containing cervical or ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potential in sudden hearing loss patients and information on associated vertigo and/or dizziness.

RESULTS

Sixteen of 62 initially selected articles met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. Regarding the methodology of the evaluated studies, 8 studies were prospective, six were retrospective, one contained part of the data from a retrospective analysis and another part from a prospective analysis, and one study was cross-sectional. A total of 872 patients were evaluated (50.22% males and 49.77% females) with a mean age of 51.26 years. Four hundred and twenty-six patients (50.35%) had vertigo and/or dizziness associated with sudden hearing loss. The cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potential was performed in all studies, but only seven assessed the ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potential. The cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potential showed alterations in 38.65% of 846 evaluated ears, whereas ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potential showed alterations in 47.88% of 368 evaluated ears. The hearing recovery rate was analyzed by 8 articles, with 63.4% of 410 evaluated ears showing hearing recovery.

CONCLUSIONS

The studies suggest that the assessment of the vestibular system using vestibular evoked myogenic potential seems to be important in the prognosis of sudden hearing loss. For better follow-up of patients with sudden hearing loss, the emphasis should not be limited to the cochlea, but also include the diagnosis and treatment of vestibular abnormalities, regardless of the presence of vertigo.

Prevalence of Vestibular Dysfunction in Children With Neurological Disabilities: A Systematic Review

Background: In children with neurological or neurodevelopmental conditions, vestibular disorders may co-exist with the primary condition and further contribute to disability and restriction in functional independence and participation. Awareness of their existence may favor an early diagnosis and better treatment outcomes.

Objectives: To determine the prevalence of vestibular dysfunction in children and adolescents (3–21 years old) diagnosed with either cerebral palsy (CP), traumatic brain injury (TBI), sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL), or cochlear implantations (CI).

Methods: Four researchers systematically reviewed the literature from three databases (EMBASE, MEDLINE, CINAHL) until June 2018.

Results: Twenty-four studies were analyzed in this systematic review. A single, high-quality study reports a prevalence of 48.4% of spastic CP children having a saccular dysfunction. Three fair-quality studies report a prevalence of 14.6–81%, 21 days post-TBI. Twelve poor-to-high quality studies demonstrate a prevalence of 18.7–96.1% in children with SNHL. A prevalence range of 3–84% in children with CI is reported by nine fair-to-high quality studies.

Conclusion: Clinicians should be aware of the prevalence of vestibular dysfunction in these populations and implement appropriate assessments to improve treatment outcomes.

Nystagmus Findings and Hearing Recovery in Idiopathic Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss Without Dizziness

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the incidence of nystagmus in patients with sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) without dizziness, and to evaluate the correlation of the presence of nystagmus with hearing recovery in those patients.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective study.

SETTING

Tertiary referral academic medical center.

PATIENTS

Thirty-eight patients with SSNHL who did not complained of dizziness were enrolled.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

The presence of nystagmus was evaluated by recording eye movements, and if present, nystagmus was classified as direction-fixed or positional nystagmus. Vestibular function tests were performed, including caloric test.

RESULTS

Of 33 idiopathic SSNHL patients without dizziness, nystagmus was observed in 22 patients (67%), of which 14 patients exhibited direction-fixed nystagmus, and 8 patients exhibited direction-changing nystagmus. Among the 14 patients with direction-fixed nystagmus, 9 displayed the paretic type, and 5 displayed the irritative type. Direction-changing nystagmus (n = 8) was defined as that in which the direction of nystagmus was changed in a supine head-roll test, and the geotropic type and apogeotropic type were observed in two and six patients, respectively. The mean initial pure tone threshold was 58.2 ± 28.1 dB and 57.3 ± 20.0 dB in SSNHL patients with and without nystagmus, respectively, which was not significantly different (p = 0.925). When hearing improvement was compared according to the presence of nystagmus, 39% (8 of 21) of patients with nystagmus were found to belong in the good prognosis group, and 72% (8 of 11) of patients without nystagmus were found to belong in the good prognosis group, which showed marginal statistical significance (p = 0.063).

CONCLUSION

Nystagmus was observed in two-thirds of idiopathic SSNHL patients without dizziness, and the pattern of nystagmus was either direction fixed or direction changing. Because hearing recovery was worse in patients with nystagmus than those without it, the diagnosis of nystagmus, even in SSNHL patients without dizziness, may be important in evaluating the hearing prognosis.

Update on consensus on diagnosis and treatment of idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss

INTRODUCTION

Idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSNHL) is a sudden, unexplained unilateral hearing loss.

OBJECTIVES

To update the Spanish Consensus on the diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of ISSNHL.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

After a systematic review of the literature from 1966 to March 2018, on MESH terms «(acute or sudden) hearing loss or deafness», a third update was performed, including 1508 relevant papers.

RESULTS

Regarding diagnosis, 11ISSNHL is clinically suspected, the following diagnostic tests are mandatory: otoscopy, acumetry, tonal audiometry, speech audiometry, and tympanometry, to discount conductive causes. After clinical diagnosis has been established, and before treatment is started, a full analysis should be performed. An MRI should then be requested, ideally performed during the first 15 days after diagnosis, to discount specific causes and to help to understand the physiopathological mechanisms in each case. Although treatment is very controversial, due to its effect on quality of life after ISSNHL and the few rare adverse effects associated with short-term steroid treatment, this consensus recommends that all patients should be treated with steroids, orally and/or intratympanically, depending on each patient. In the event of failure of systemic steroids, intratympanic rescue is also recommended. Follow-up should be at day 7, and after 12 months.

CONCLUSION

By consensus, results after treatment should be reported as absolute decibels recovered in pure tonal audiometry and as improvement in speech audiometry.