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Sensorineural hearing loss in systemic lupus erythematosus: case report and literature review

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  19 February 2008

N A Khalidi ,
R Rebello  and
D D Robertson
N A Khalidi*
Affiliation:
Section of Rheumatology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
R Rebello
Affiliation:
Section of Radiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
D D Robertson
Affiliation:
Section of ENT, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
*
Address for correspondence: Dr Nader Khalidi, Section of Rheumatology, McMaster University, 240 James St South, Hamilton, Ontario, CanadaL8P 3B3. Fax: 905 521 8099 E-mail: naderkhalidi@sympatico.ca
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Abstract

Objectives:

We present a case of systemic lupus erythematosus with symptomatic sensorineural hearing loss which was successfully treated with azathioprine, as assessed both clinically and radiologically. We also present a review of the relevant literature.

Case report:

A woman with systemic lupus erythematosus presented with sensorineural hearing loss, initially on the right and subsequently developing on the left over several months. An audiogram revealed profound neurosensory hearing loss bilaterally. The patient was treated with prednisone 60 mg daily and azathioprine 200 mg daily. An improvement on the left was noted on follow-up audiography as well as on magnetic resonance imaging of the internal auditory canals and surrounding structures.

Conclusion:

Sensorineural hearing loss has been described in autoimmune disorders but is rare. Aural symptoms have been described, with varying incidences (0–57.5 per cent), in systemic lupus erythematosus. However, symptomatic sensorineural hearing loss is rare in systemic lupus erythematosus. Prednisone appears essential when an immunological or vasculitic cause is found. The use of azathioprine should be considered, as well as follow-up with magnetic resonance imaging to detect improvement.

Keywords

Systemic Lupus ErythematosusSensorineural Hearing Loss, SymptomaticMagnetic Resonance Imaging
Type
Clinical Records
Information
The Journal of Laryngology & Otology , Volume 122 , Issue 12 , December 2008 , pp. 1371 - 1376
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 2008

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