Sensorineural hearing loss and congenital diaphragmatic hernia

Abstract

The objective was to determine whether or not sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) can be present in congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) survivors. All survivors of surgery for CDH born between 1999 and 2008 underwent audiological evaluation. Diagnosis of SNHL was based on standard audiological testing methods. SNHL was defined as a hearing loss of >20dB in at least one frequency tested and was classified – according to its severity, and thus potential impact on speech and language development – as type 1, 2, 3 or 4. Of the 116 patients undergoing at least one formal audiological evaluation, 45 (39%) presented SNHL. Of the sub-sample of 72 children born by the end of 2004 (all older than four years of age), 43 (59.7%) had SNHL. Only two children with SNHL were under two years of age. Our results confirm that hearing loss can occur in CDH survivors, making it necessary to include auditory monitoring in CDH follow-up protocols. It may show a delayed onset and be progressive, therefore audiological testing might be warranted until adolescence.

Key words::

• delayed onset hearing loss
• progressive hearing loss
• follow-up programme

Acknowledgements

Thanks are expressed to audiologists Stefania Luchenti, Antonella Di Leo, Simona Di Fiore, Angelo Ingrosso, and Patrizio Rinaldo, who helped with the audiological follow-up programme. Roberta Santi is also thanked for her assistance with the data collection.

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.