Analysis of the clinical value of triiodothyronine levels in sudden sensorineural hearing loss: A retrospective observational study

Abstract

Thyroid hormone (TH) plays a key role in neurological and metabolic regulation. However, its association with sudden sensorineural hearing loss remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the potential role of triiodothyronine (T3) in sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) and its relationship with emotional and sleep disturbances. We retrospectively analyzed 88 patients with SSNHL and 32 patients with chronic otitis media as controls. SSNHL patients were stratified into 3 audiometric subgroups. Data collected included demographics, TH status profiles (T3, free triiodothyronine [FT3], thyroxine, thyroid-stimulating hormone), and assessments of anxiety, depression, and sleep quality. Abnormal TH levels were observed in 34.1% of SSNHL patients, with decreased T3 and FT3 levels in 27.3% and 18.2%, respectively - significantly higher than in the chronic otitis media group (6.3%). FT3 levels differed significantly between the low- and total-frequency subgroups. The prevalence of anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders among SSNHL patients was 42%, 33.3%, and 51.1%, respectively, significantly exceeding that in controls. Most patients with low T3 syndrome experienced spontaneous normalization of hormone levels, unlike those with hypothyroidism. SSNHL may be associated with transient TH alterations, particularly reductions in active T3. Monitoring thyroid function and addressing psychosomatic factors may be important in managing SSNHL.