Asymmetric sensorineural hearing loss in children: progression and involvement of the contralateral ear

Abstract

Background Sensorineural hearing loss in child has a profound impact on their neurodevelopment and on language acquisition. Thus, the diagnosis and early intervention are critical, namely in unilateral or bilateral asymmetric hearing losses, which are diagnosed later than symmetric bilateral hearing losses. Objectives This study aims to examine the progression of asymmetric SNHL in children, and the link between hearing thresholds and the technological level of the hearing aid fitted. Material and methods Eighteen children with asymmetric SNHL were submitted to a pure tone audiogram at the age of 5 years (T0) and reassessed at the age of 10 years (T1). Children were divided according to the technological level of the hearing aid fitted: basic, medium, and advanced. Results A positive correlation was established between the hearing thresholds at T0 and T1, revealing an accelerated progression of hearing thresholds in the better ear after a 5-year period. Conclusions Hearing thresholds in the worse ear influence the progression of the SNHL. Moreover, technologically advanced hearing aids led to a slower progression of the hearing thresholds over time.