Sudden sensorineural hearing loss: Is there a connection with inner ear electrolytic disorders? A literature review. (December 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ciorba, Andrea; Corazzi, Virginia; Bianchini, Chiara; Aimoni, Claudia; Skarzynski, Henryk; Skarzynski, Piotr Henryk; Hatzopoulos, Stavros
• Is Part Of: International journal of immunopathology and pharmacology. Volume 29:Number 4(2016)
• Page Start: 595
• Page End: 602
• Publication Date: 2016-12
• Subjects: cochlea -- electrolytes -- inner ear -- sudden sensorineural hearing loss; Immunopathology -- Periodicals; Pharmacology -- Periodicals; Inflammation -- Periodicals; 615.1
• DOI: 10.1177/0394632016673845
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0394-6320

Abstract

Electrolytic disorders of the inner ear represent a model that could be implicated in partially explaining the pathogenesis of sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL). Different types of electrolytes and different inner-ear loci are involved in cochlear homeostasis physiologically, to ensure the maintenance of an ion-balanced cochlear environment allowing a normal hair cell function. It has been hypothesized that a sudden loss of endocochlear potential, due to a rapid disruption of the inner ear fluid osmolality, could be responsible for a deterioration of the hearing function caused by damaged hair cells. The aim of this paper was to review the current literature and identify sources which might validate/fortify the hypothesis that inner ear electrolytic disorders have a role in the etiopathogenesis of SSNHL. The data in the literature underline the importance of ionic homeostasis in the inner ear, but they do not support a direct link between SSNHL and electrolyte disorders/imbalances. There is marginal evidence from otoacoustic emissions research that an indirect link might be present.