Sudden sensorineural hearing loss during pregnancy. A case study and literature review

Abstract

<b>Introduction:</b> Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) is defined as the sudden onset of hearing loss of 30 dB or more, across three consecutive frequencies in a pure-tone audiogram occurring within a 72-hour period. The term “sensorineural” indicates that the cause of the hearing loss lies in disturbances within the cochlea or auditory nerve. SSNHL typically presents as unilateral, transient hearing loss that occurs upon awakening. Bilateral hearing loss occurs in less than 2% of patients. Additionally, patients may report sensations of ear fullness or blockage, tinnitus, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting.<b>Aim:</b> Defining the management of SSNHL in pregnant women.<b>Case report:</b> This article describes the case of a 36-years-old pregnant woman who developed hearing impairment in the left ear in the third trimester along with tinnitus and balance disorders.<b>Discussion:</b> The occurrence of SSNHL in pregnant women is rare and not well understood. Majority of pregnant patients with SSNHL experienced the condition in second or third trimester. Key elements facilitating an accurate diagnosis include: interview and physical examination, hearing tests, balance evaluation, and imaging studies. The exact causes of SSNHL in pregnant women remain unknown. However, hormonal changes during pregnancy can have some contribution to development of this condition. Onset of SSNHL symptoms could resemble Ménière’s disease.<b>Conclusions:</b> Due to rare occurrence of SSNHL in pregnant women, there is no standardized approach to managing this medical issue. Given that most cases of SSNHL are classified as idiopathic, empirical treatment primarily involves steroids.