A Case of Cochlear Implantation in Bromate-Induced Bilateral Sudden Deafness

Abstract

Despite the well-established nature of bromate-induced ototoxicity, cochlear implantation after bromate intoxication has been rarely documented. We hereby present a case of a 51-year-old female deafened completely after bromate ingestion. Her hearing was not restored by systemic steroid treatment and hearing aids were of no use. A cochlear implantation was performed on her right ear 3 months after the bromate ingestion. In bromate intoxication cases, early monitoring of hearing level is necessary and other drugs with potential ototoxicity should be avoided. The outcome of cochlear implantation was excellent in this case of bromate-induced deafness.

Hearing recovery from deafness caused by bromate intoxication

“…Cochlear implants are an effective treatment for individuals who are deaf or have profound sensorineural hearing loss. Although our patient did not receive a cochlear implant, several reports have shown good outcomes when cochlear implants are used for patients with bromate-induced sensorineural hearing loss 6 , 13 …”

“…Sodium bromate is a strong oxidant that is commonly used as a neutraliser for permanent wave hair styling kits in Asia (e.g. Japan, Korea and Taiwan) and is rarely used in suicide 1 – 6 . Sodium bromate is tasteless and odourless, and bromate intoxication can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, acute renal failure, central and peripheral nervous system disorder symptoms, and hearing loss 3 , 5 , 7 , 8 .…”