Cochlear inflammation associated with noise-exposure

Abstract

While we know a great deal about the anatomical and physiological changes that occur within the cochlea as a result of noise exposure of various spectra, intensities and durations, we know relatively little about the inflammatory response to these noises. Some cochlear cells up-regulate their expression of inflammatory mediators in response to noise and presumably thereby, recruit circulating macrophages into the cochlea or activate resident cells. The mechanisms that mediate these process are not yet known. The value of the inflammatory response in terms of cochlear repair is not known. Investigators have described immune responses within the stria vascularis, the spiral ligament, the mesothelial cells below the basilar membrane and the epithelial cells of the organ of Corti. The cooperation and/or interactions among these various cells are not known. This chapter is an attempt to identify what is known of the inflammatory response and stimulate new research to clarify the response and its function.