Unilateral sudden sensorineural hearing loss in post-COVID-19 patients: Case report

Abstract

Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) is an otologic emergency. Sensorineural hearing loss needs to be distinguished from conductive when patients present with sudden hearing loss at the primary care level. Prompt diagnosis of sensorineural hearing loss with pure tone audiometry and immediate treatment by an otolaryngologist can improve the hearing outcome. To date, few case reports exist about SSNHL among post-COVID-19 patients, and none were reported in Malaysia. Here, we present two cases of SSNHL in patients after COVID-19 infection. We wish to highlight the association of SSNHL following COVID-19 infection for timely referral towards better audiology outcomes. Permanent hearing loss will lead to another negative impact on the long-term quality of life of COVID-19 patients. to a private hospital, where investigations were carried out to look for the cause of SSNHL. A baseline blood investigation was performed, and the result was unremarkable. Autoimmune screening and VDRL were negative. A brain MRI showed no neurovascular lesion or tumour. The facial and vestibulocochlear nerves were normal. He was additionally given tanakan 40 mg thrice daily on discharge.