Sudden sensorineural hearing loss in multiple sclerosis: clinical course and possible pathogenesis

Abstract

OBJECTIVE - To assess the symptom of sudden hearing loss in multiple sclerosis (MS). METHOD - We reviewed patient files in our MS clinic between January 2004 and November 2009 for symptoms of sudden hearing loss. RESULTS - We were able to identify 11 of 253 patients (4.35%) with sudden hearing loss. In seven patients, the hearing decline was the presenting symptom of MS and in all 11 patients, it appeared early in the course of the disease. There was no residual hearing deficit in 9/11 patients. In no patient was the condition bilateral and in none did it recur. CONCLUSION - Episodes of hearing loss are not uncommon in MS and have a good chance of complete recovery.