Vestibular dysfunction and hearing outcome in idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss.

Objective: To describe vestibular dysfunction accompanied by sudden sensorineural hearing loss and explore its potential prognostic role.

Methods: A total of 44 Idiopathic Sudden Sensorineural Hearing loss cases were enrolled. Pure tone audiometry (PTA) was performed at the first visit and three months after standard therapy. Patients' improvement and severity of hearing loss were categorised based on Siegel and American Speech and Hearing Association criteria. Their recovery rate and factors affecting recovery were explored.

Results: The mean age of the participants was 52.1 years. The caloric and cervical vestibular-evoked myogenic potential test abnormalities were detected in 36.4 and 31.8 per cent of participants. Vertigo was present in 36.4 per cent at the first visit. Based on American Speech and Hearing Association criteria, 16 patients experienced at least 1 grade improvement to a less severe hearing loss status at the follow up. A total of 31.7 per cent of patients demonstrated complete or partial recovery. Vestibular dysfunction was associated with poorer PTA results.

Conclusion: Abnormal caloric and cervical vestibular-evoked myogenic potential tests, as well as the presence of vertigo, can indicate more profound inner-ear damage.