In multiple sclerosis (MS), the occurrence of sudden sensorineural
hearing loss (SSNHL) is considered rare, with reported cases
predominantly being unilateral. Bilateral cases are even rarer. Here,
we report a case of bilateral SSNHL in a 20-year-old male diagnosed
with MS. The patient, undergoing corticosteroid therapy for the
management of MS, additionally received an intratympanic dexamethasone
injection; however, it could not achieve significant improvement.
Subsequently, the systemic dosage was increased for one week, resulting
in substantial hearing improvement in both ears after three months. A
review of MS-related SSNHL cases from 1987 to 2022 revealed 39 ears in
the literature, with only five ears showing no hearing recovery. A
remarkable 87.2% exhibited restored hearing, presenting a more
favorable prognosis compared with idiopathic SSNHL. Although there were
slight variations in administration methods and duration, all
documented treatment approaches involve systemic corticosteroids. In
conclusion, the treatment of MS-related SSNHL appears appropriate with
systemic corticosteroids, showing a significantly superior prognosis
compared with idiopathic SSNHL. |