Evaluation of the vestibüler system in patients with idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss

Due to the close relationship between the cochlea and vestibular organs, cochlear dysfunction may also be accompanied by vestibular disorders. The aim of this study was to evaluate vestibular functions in patients with idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss. Thirty three patients with idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss aged between 18-55 years and 30 volunteers without hearing and balance problems were included in the study. Audiometry, cVEMP, oVEMP, caloric test and VNG tests were performed before treatment, 10th day and 30th day of treatment. In addition, patients' admission time, degree and configuration of hearing loss, accompanying vertigo, tinnitus and ear fullness; the effect on hearing improvement was evaluated. Of the 33 cases in the study group, 19(%57,6) were male and 14(%42.4) were female. The mean age was 40.24 ± 13.05. Of the 30 individuals in the control group, 19(%63.3) were male and 11(%36.7) were female. The mean age was 39.53 ± 13.03. There was no significant difference in the frequency of sudden sensorineural hearing loss in terms of gender and age, and the prognosis was better in female patients. Early admission to treatment showed good prognosis. Very severe hearing loss and bilateral hearing loss had a poor prognosis. The prognosis was better in patients with rising type audiogram configuration. Prognosis was found to be worse in patients with flat, descending and total hearing loss. Vertigo, tinnitus, ear fullness and history of hearing loss did not affect prognosis. Abnormal caloric response was higher in patients with severe hearing loss and total hearing configuration. cVEMP and oVEMP P1-N1 latencies were shortened after treatment. Abnormal response was highest in oVEMP, cVEMP and caloric test, respectively. In addition, abnormal responses decreased after treatment. As a result; in our study, vestibular function was affected in patients with idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss. According to these results, we think that evaluation of vestibular system is important in predicting prognosis of patients with sudden sensorineural hearing loss. Further studies involving more patient series are needed. Key Words: Idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss, Vestibüler dysfunction, oVEMP, cVEMP, Caloric test.