Current trends for different diagnostic tools and their influence on treatment outcome for sudden sensorineural hearing loss

Current trends for different diagnostic tools and their influence on treatment outcome for sudden sensorineural hearing loss Furrukh Younus,
KRL Hospital Islamabad

Background: Sudden sensorineural hearing loss is a multifaceted condition defined as sensorineural hearing loss of 30dB or greater over at least three contiguous audiometric frequencies occurring within a 72-hour period. It remains a challenge for the clinician. Though, in majority of cases no definite cause can be found, different diagnostic tests help in the diagnosis and targeted treatment options can be employed in cases with treatable etiologies.

Objectives: To analyze current trends for different diagnostic tools and outline their influence on treatment outcome for sudden sensorineural hearing loss.

Methods: Systematic review that followed precepts of Cochrane Handbook and Swedish national database for SSNHL.

Study design: Prospective RCTs on SSNHL (Feb.2007 – Feb. 2014).

Results: No etiologic factor identified in majority of patients. No significant correlation found between MRI and laboratory findings with regard to either treatment or hearing recovery in SSNHL.

Conclusion: No correlation between laboratory findings and treatment outcome and no difference of treatment in patients with pathological tests and those with
normal or no tests.