Arteriopathy and microvascular impairment in sudden sensorineural hearing loss: Clues from two clinical cases

Abstract

The aetiopathogenetic mechanism of sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) is still unclear. Microvascular impairment is one of the possible reported causes of SSNHL; nonetheless, few studies in the literature have investigated the association between SSHNL and vascular disease and a cause-effect relationship still has to be demonstrated. Two cases of SSNHL are presented and the possible role of vascular disorders in the pathogenesis of this disease is discussed.

Jugular valve function and petrosal sinuses pressure: a computational model applied to sudden sensorineural hearing loss

“…The pathogenesis of SSNHL is still unknown; viral infections and vascular disease are the more common mechanisms advocated, even if evidence in favour of a specific mechanism is still insufficient. 30 Of the possible causes of SSNHL, vascular involvement has captured much attention, and some studies in the literature have investigated the association between SSNHL and vascular disease to date. A better understanding of the relationship between cochlear blood flow and hearing function is fundamental for improving the treatment and diagnosis of deafness that potentially arises from circulatory abnormalities.…”

“…Achieving such understanding has been challenging because of the experimental difficulties involved in monitoring cochlear blood flow. 30 However, computa- tion analisys could offer nowadays the possibility of quantifying brain haemodynamics. In particular, we have applied a validated protocol of ECD evaluation of the extracranial veins to a confirmed computational model in order to assess haemodynamic parameters in the vein of the inner ear, and particularly in the major dural sinuses draining it.…”