A Study of Sensorineural Hearing Loss in Patients of CSOM

Abstract

Chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) is defined as chronic ear discharge (i.e.
lasting > 6-12 weeks) through a tympanic membrane perforation. It is generally
associated with some degree of conductive hearing loss because of perforated
tympanic membrane or ossicular destruction. However, recurrent ear infections due
to perforated eardrum may result in absorption of toxins and macromolecules in the
cochlea leading to sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). This study was done to
evaluate the frequency of SNHL in CSOM. Average threshold of speech frequencies
was calculated via pure tone audiogram. The frequency was found to increase with
increasing duration of the disease. Patients with CSOM should be counselled
regarding the risk of developing SNHL if left untreated.