The association between serum bilirubin levels and hearing loss in the patients with bilateral sudden deafness

Abstract

Objective:The aim of this study was to investigate the association between serum bilirubin levels and the severity of bilateral sudden sensorineural hearing loss （BSSHL）. Method:A total of 113 patients with bilateral axillary sputum were enrolled, and the relationship between serum bilirubin levels and initial hearing levels was explored using a univariate and multivariate linear regression model. Result:Compared with the group with moderate and below hearing loss （≤70 dB HL）, patients with severe profound HL（>70 dB HL） were more likely to have lower levels of total and indirect bilirubin level, magnesium and relative hearing gain, higher levels of final hearing, white blood counts, neutrophil, platelet and alkaline phosphatase. After adjusting for possible confounders, only serum indirect bilirubin levels were significantly negatively correlated with initial hearing loss in patients with bilateral axillary sputum. 1 μmol/L increase of IBIL was associated with 1.1 dB （95%CI: -2.2, 0.0） reduction in initial hearing loss. Conclusion:Within the normal or mildly elevated range, higher levels of IBIL are independently and significantly associated with less severe hearing loss in BSSHL. It suggested a beneficial effect of bilirubin on auditory system.