Tinnitus cases after COVID-19 vaccine administration, one institution's observations

Abstract

ObjectiveAfter the role out of the COVID-19 vaccine in the United States, there has been increase in case reports of tinnitus attributed to the vaccine reported. We present our institution's experience over the initial 13 month period the vaccines were available. Study designRetrospective chart review. SettingTertiary academic otology and general otolaryngology practice. PatientsPatients who received a COVID-19 vaccine and a tinnitus diagnosis code. InterventionsObservation, steroids (oral and intratympanic), diagnostic imaging and audiometry. Main outcome measuresPatients who received a COVID-19 vaccine in the time frame of 12/1/2020–12/31/21 with a diagnosis of tinnitus, an audiogram, and at least one visit with one of our Otolaryngologists were included in the study. Twenty-seven of the 1254 patients identified met these criteria. The patients ranged in age from 41 to 84 years old including seven male and twenty female patients. Sixteen received the Pfizer vaccine, seven received the Moderna vaccine and four patients received the Janssen vaccine. ConclusionsNo definite correlation could be established between COVID-19 vaccine and tinnitus. Any concurrent sudden hearing loss should be treated as usual with oral or intratympanic steroids. Health care providers should be aware of the tinnitus onset and if new or recent onset, to refer for prompt audiogram and Otolaryngology evaluation.