Pathophysiology and Treatment of Tinnitus: An Elusive Disease

Abstract

Tinnitus is a perception of sound in proximity to the head with the absence of an external source. It is estimated to occur in 15-20% of the world's population, with 1-3% of cases severely affecting quality of life. Severe tinnitus is frequently associated with depression, anxiety and insomnia. Tinnitus has been associated with a variety of risk factors, including prolonged noise exposure, head and neck injury and infection. The most recent pathophysiologic theory of tinnitus suggests that the central nervous system is the source or ''generator'' of this condition. However, treatment modalities are still aimed at lessening the awareness of tinnitus and its impact on quality of life rather than attaining a definitive cure. Currently, no drug is available that has demonstrated replicable, long-term reduction of tinnitus impact in excess of placebo effects. However, the market value of such an agent is estimated to be $1.1 billion, with a potential for increase with an aging and longer-living population. This review assesses the current developments in the pathophysiology and treatment for tinnitus, which remains a chronic and debilitating condition.

The relathinship between tinnitus functional index and tinnitus handicap inventory scores in patients with chronic tinnitus

“…In young adults and elderly people, exposure to noise and presbycusis are the most common causes of tinnitus [3]. In general, 15−20% of the world population suffers from tinnitus which affects the daily activities of 25% of this population [4]. Tinnitus can affect different aspects of life quality such as sleeping, concentration, enjoying occupational and leisure activities, and maintaining social interactions [5].…”

Prolonged noise exposure-induced auditory threshold shifts in rats

“…At the conclusion of the experiment, the cochleae were removed and the round window, oval window, and the cochlear apex were opened to facilitate perfusion of staining solutions and fixative as described in detail previously (Chen, 2002, Atik, 2014). Briefly, the cochleae were perfused with an incubation solution containing 0.05% nitrotetrazolium blue chloride (cat#N6876, Sigma), 0.05M sodium succinate, and 0.05 M phosphate buffer and then incubated in the solution for 1 h (37 °C).…”

Pharmacotherapy of tinnitus

“…It may be described as buzzing, ringing, roaring, whistling or hissing and can be variable and complex. 1 Tinnitus is a very common complaint and affects 7% of population and has been associated with a range of physical and emotional disorders. The prevalence of tinnitus among those over 65 years of age ranges from 12% to 15%.…”