Bilateral Sudden Hearing Loss in Iron Deficiency Anemia

Abstract

The present study describes an unusual case of bilateral sudden hearing loss associated with iron deficiency anemia. Although hematologic disorders such as anemia or leukemia have been reported to be associated with sudden hearing loss, bilateral sudden hearing loss, which was presented as the first manifestation of iron deficiency anemia, has not been reported. A 74-year-old man presented with simultaneous bilateral sudden hearing loss without vertigo. A complete blood count test revealed a hemoglobin level of 6.4 g/dL and a ferritin level of 14.5 mg/mL, indicating iron deficiency anemia. Postcontrast 3D FLAIR MRI showed enhancement of the bilateral cochlea, vestibules, and lateral semicircular and posterior semicircular canals. After treatment, the patient's hearing loss partially improved.