Comparative study of high-resolution T2-weighted turbo spin echo sequence and postcontrast three-dimensional volumetric T1-weighted sequence in evaluation of acute onset sensorineural hearing loss

Abstract

Purpose: Magnetic resonance imaging has revolutionized the evaluation of acute onset sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). This study was carried out with an aim to diagnose the causes of acute onset SNHL with an attempt to compare the accuracy of high-resolution three-dimensional (3D) T2-weighted sequences with postcontrast 3D volumetric T1-weighted imaging. Materials and Methods: Two hundred and fifty-five cases of acute onset SNHL were evaluated using noncontrast sequence for brain and 3D DRIVE for seventh and eight cranial nerves. Postcontrast 3D volumetric T1 sequence was done for the whole brain. Results: Poor visualization of the semicircular canal (confirmed as labyrinthitis ossificans on computed tomography) was the most common cause of acute onset SNHL, followed by vestibular schwannoma. 3D DRIVE sequence was not able to detect seven cases of small intracanalicular vestibular schwannoma and enhancement of the seventh-eighth cranial nerves. However, these cases were detected on postcontrast sequence. Conclusion: As the sensitivity of the 3D DRIVE sequence was only 74.1%, it cannot be used as a screening tool for the evaluation of acute onset SNHL. 3D postcontrast sequence will detect even small vestibular schwannomas and inflammatory/infective causes of acute onset SNHL, which might have an impact on the management of the patient.

Keywords

• acute onset sensorineural hearing loss
• high-resolution t2-weighted turbo spin echo sequence
• magnetic resonance imaging
• postcontrast three-dimensional volumetric t1 weighted imaging
• three-dimensional drive