Aktuelle Aspekte zur Ototoxizität

Abstract

Ototoxicity describes reversible or irreversible disorders of inner ear functions due to the influence of chemical, biological, or physical substances. Ototoxicity should be kept in mind during differential diagnosis of hearing loss, tinnitus, dizziness, and vertigo. In clinical practice, drug-induced ototoxic effects play a major role. The otorhinolaryngologist should also be involved in interdisciplinary cooperation, e.g., during treatment with antineoplastic chemotherapeutic agents with potential ototoxic side effects. In clinical practice, multimedication and interactions between different agents can complicate precise correlation in individual cases. Recent studies also show that noncellular components, such as otoconia, are extremely sensitive to chemical attacks.

Is smoking a risk factor for tinnitus? A systematic review, meta-analysis and estimation of the population attributable risk in Germany

“… 15 Besides, ototoxic agents such as hydrogen cyanide, lead, styrene and toluene can be found among the constituents of cigarette smoke. 16 17 The formation of a hearing impression is submitted to a complex neuronal network of reinforcing and inhibiting influences, whose homeostasis is highly susceptible to minor changes. Nicotine influences the transmission of acoustic information 18 by interfering with neurotransmitter release in different sections of the central nervous system.…”

Self-assessment of hearing on hookah smokers

“…18 Nicotine has effect on the transmission of auditory information by interfering with the release of neurotransmitter in different centers of the central auditory nervous system. 19 Nicotine alter synaptic plasticity could be the reason of tinnitus among smokers. 20 Approximately 20% of the hookah smokers reported poor quality of sleep and almost half of the total number of smokers reported irritation showed psychological issues in hookah smokers.…”