A head thing? – The psychogenic sudden hearing loss

Introduction

Hearing, as auditory perception, forms the basis for learning a language, assigning sounds and the associated ability to perceive potential dangers early enough. In addition, communication and thus participation in society are more difficult in the event of a loss or deterioration of hearing.

Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) is one of the main reasons for emergency consultation with ENT specialists. Unfortunately, despite detailed anamnesis and diagnostics, it is not always possible to find a cause for the symptoms that suddenly appeared.

Method

We report on a young patient who presented with suddenly occurring profound hearing loss with tinnitus.

Results

The examinations showed a normal ear microscopy results. A unilateral hearing loss of 80 dB was measured in the pure-tone audiogram. The objective hearing tests (TOAE, DPOAE, FAEP, ASSR-BERA) all gave normal results and no evidence of hearing impairment. In the synopsis of all audiological and otoneurological findings, the suspected diagnosis of psychogenic sudden hearing loss was made. In the discussions with a psychotherapist, an enormous stressful situation could be worked out in the professional context. After a therapeutic interview, hearing normalized in the affected ear. Further outpatient care was recommended.

Conclusion

The present case describes psychogenic hearing impairment as a possible differential diagnosis of idiopathic sudden hearing loss, especially in young patients. The case is discussed based on the literature.

Publikationsverlauf

Artikel online veröffentlicht:
24. Mai 2022