Bilateral sudden sensorineural hearing loss associated with sepsis: A case report and literature review

Abstract

Bilateral sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) is rare and usually indicates a serious systemic pathology. We describe an unusual case of bilateral SSNHL caused by sepsis. A 28-year-old female complained of acute-onset bilateral hearing impairment; in addition to otological symptoms, she had a systemic condition that met the criteria for sepsis. We performed a physical examination and laboratory tests to diagnose sepsis. Pure tone audiogram and videonystagmography were performed to evaluate the otological symptoms. Intravenous antibiotics and high-dose methylprednisolone were prescribed for treatment, and audiogram was repeated during that period. The fever subsided and the vital signs were stabilized. The electrolyte imbalance and abnormal urine parameters became normal. Hearing gradually recovered to a normal level on day 7 of hospitalization. In conclusion, sepsis should be considered as a cause of SSNHL. When conducting a detailed examination of patients with bilateral SSNHL, the clinician should consider systemic disease. Copyright © 2021 Korean Society of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery.