Deafness: malaria as a forgotten cause

Abstract

Evidence from this review suggests that the falciparum parasite is a potential cause of hearing loss. Malaria is a disease of such high prevalence that even if only a small proportion of survivors develop this impairment the effects on children's education could be detrimental. More attention should be focussed on investigating this association as the clinical and pathophysiological implications are potentially considerable.

Sickle Cell Trait, Malaria and Sensorineural Hearing Loss–A Case-Control Study from São Tomé and Príncipe

“…Our results are supported by others, suggesting also that mild clinical malaria may also be associated with SNHL [25,26].…”

Oxymorphone Insufflation Associated with Acute Sensorineural Hearing Loss: Case Files of the University of Massachusetts Medical Toxicology Fellowship

“…Loop diuretics have also been associated with both reversible and irreversible sensorineural hearing loss [8]. A recent review of the literature suggests that antimalarial therapeutics, and possibly the falciparum parasite itself, cause hearing loss [9].…”

The global burden of disabling hearing impairment: a call to action

“…43 Similarly, severe neonatal jaundice -if not treated promptly -can be a contributor to disabling hearing impairment when combined with substantial glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency. [43][44][45] Despite ample evidence of a link between hearing impairment and HIV infection, tuberculosis and malaria, [25][26][27][28] such an association has rarely been acknowledged in the global fight against these "big three" diseases. Similarly, although childhood malnutrition is of great global health interest, the potential association between malnutrition due to protein-energy or micronutrient deficiency and hearing impairment has also largely remained uncharted.…”

“…24 People with HIV infection, tuberculosis or malaria -infections addressed by MDG 6 -are also at high risk of developing hearing impairment, either from their infections or their treatment. [25][26][27][28] Many individuals with disabling hearing impairment are disadvantaged and vulnerable children, young adults in their prime years or elderly people in dire need of societal support. The challenges of living with such impairment, particularly in poorly-resourced countries, should engender prevention efforts.…”