Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) evidence based management - state of the art

Introduction

Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) is defined as an acute hearing loss occurring within the period of three days (3) with the least magnitude of 30dB or more in three or more contiguous frequencies. Optimum management of SSNHL is disputed. This article attempts to review current literature on the subject and propose a protocol of management.

Methods

Latest guidelines on the SSNHL were accessed through Google Scholar database and reviewed for appropriateness. Studies assessing the management options were included. Efficacy of interventions were assessed, and recommendations made.

Results

17 publications including European Consensus Document and AAO HNS recommendation were assessed.

Conclusions

1. Systemic steroids use has a clear definitive recommendation in unison.

2. Intratympanic steroid use has been proposed mainly for salvage therapy.

3. Combined modality treatment options have been used with mixed outcome.

4. Based on the findings a protocol for management of SSNHL is proposed.