Plasma endothelin-1 levels in patients with sudden sensorineural hearing loss

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between Endothelin-1 (ET-1) and hearing levels in patients with sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSHL). STUDY DESIGN: Prospective. SETTING: Tertiary referral center. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Thirty-seven patients with SSHL were included in the study. Patients who recieved treatment before admission or had symptoms for more than 3 days were not enrolled. Endothelin levels of 37 patients diagnosed as having SSHL were investigated admission and 3rd month follow-up with reference to the hearing recovery. RESULTS: Fifteen patients, with complete recovery after treatment, had statistically lower enclothelin-1 levels at 3rd month follow-up compared to the level at admission (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: We suggest vascular reasons may play an important role in SSHL and the treatment should be planned accordingly.