Audiology Research (Jul 2021)

Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss in Mild COVID-19: Case Series and Analysis of the Literature

  • Filippo Ricciardiello,
  • Davide Pisani,
  • Pasquale Viola,
  • Elisabetta Cristiano,
  • Alfonso Scarpa,
  • Antonio Giannone,
  • Giuseppe Longo,
  • Giuseppe Russo,
  • Marco Bocchetti,
  • Ciro Coppola,
  • Marco Perrella,
  • Flavia Oliva,
  • Giuseppe Chiarella

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/audiolres11030029
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 11, no. 3
pp. 313 – 326

Abstract

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Background: There is growing evidence of otoneurological involvement of SARS-CoV-2, such as tinnitus and balance disorders and smell and taste disorders, but HL in COVID-19 patients has still been marginally studied. Investigating the role of SARS-CoV-2 as an aetiological factor of Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SSNHL) may offer the opportunity to address treatment strategies to maximize clinical recovery and avoid side effects. Methods and results: For this purpose, we will present case studies of five patients who experienced SSNHL during COVID-19. Patients were selected from COVID-19 positive adult subjects with mild clinical presentation, admitted to the outpatient Ear Nose and Throat Department of Cardarelli Hospital due to the onset of SSNHL during the infection. All underwent a complete audio-vestibular investigation before and after SSNHL treatment protocol. Each patient is described with a detailed analysis. Conclusions: SSNHL could be an occasional symptom of COVID-19, even in mild manifestations of the disease. Our experience leads us to underline the value of promptly recognizing and addressing this and other uncommon symptoms, giving patients the opportunity to receive early treatment.

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