Achados audiológicos em pacientes tratados com radioterapia para tumores de cabeça e pescoço

Abstract

Radiotherapy has been widely used given its increase in the successful outcomes and cure of some cancers. Aim To evaluate the functionality of the auditory system in patients who underwent radiotherapy treatment for head and neck tumors. Materials and Methods From May 2007 to May 2008, otorhinolaryngological and audiological evaluation (Pure Tone Audiometry (air and bone conduction), Speech Audiometry, Tympanometry, Acoustic Reflex testing and Distortion Product Otoacoustic Emissions) were performed in 19 patients diagnosed with head and neck neoplasia and treated with radiotherapy. Prospective case series study. Results 10.5% left ears and 26.3% right ears had bilateral hearing loss soon after radiotherapy according to ASHA criteria. Conclusions Radiotherapy treatment for head and neck cancer has ototoxic effects. Early programs of auditory rehabilitation should be offered to these patients.

Audiological profile of patients treated for childhood cancer

“…Paulino et al, 23 Johannesen et al, 24 Low et al, 8 and Dell’Aringa et al 9 reported that doses between 4000 and 6000 cGy were risk dosages for hearing loss, and suggested audiological monitoring. Treatment with Rxt in head and neck tumors can cause other ear disorders such as otitis externa, serous otitis media, 25 necrosis of the external auditory canal, and osteoradionecrosis of the temporal bone.…”

“…The variable “radiation reaching the auditory system” was categorized as: no Rxt, Rxt ≤ 4000 cGy, and Rxt > 4000 cGy. 9 , 14 …”

“… 6 , 7 However, when the drug is administered alone and in lower doses (50–60 Gy), no clinically significant hearing loss occurs. 8 , 9 …”