Deafness and Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

Introduction Diabetes mellitus cases are increasing worldwide. It affects almost all systems of the body including audio-vestibular system. Diabetic otopathy (DO) is the presence of symptoms and signs of vestibular and auditory disorders in patients with diabetes mellitus after the exclusion of other causes. In this review we aimed to study the mechanism of development of hearing loss in diabetes, the relationship between duration and severity of diabetes, and association of other complications with hearing loss. Materials and Methods We searched the MEDLINE & PubMed database using terms ‘diabetic otopathy’ and ‘diabetes & hearing loss’ for the articles published since 1970. Twenty articles were selected and reviewed. Results The mechanism of development of DO is not yet clearly known. But it is suggested to be multifactorial. This review of literature suggested that hearing impairment is two times more prevalent in subjects with diabetes as compared to those without diabetes. The relationship between diabetic otopathy and diabetic kidney disease is most commonly noticed. Conclusion The higher prevalence of hearing impairment in diabetic patients compared with nondiabetic patients was consistent. It is necessary to establish a screening and monitoring strategy for patients with diabetes mellitus to prevent the development of hearing loss and its consequences on life quality.