Sudden hearing loss as initial manifestation in patients with systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases: case series
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Abstract
Sudden hearing loss is an acute onset entity secondary to multiple etiologies, such as systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases (ERAS). Its involvement is typically unilateral, associated with ear tamponade and tinnitus. Diagnosis is based on history, physical examination, and audiometry. Depending on their etiology, the first-line treatment is systemic corticosteroids and other therapeutic agents. The prognosis depends on the degree of hearing loss, the time of initiation of therapy, and factors inherent to the patient. Three clinical cases of patients who debuted with sudden hearing loss as the initial manifestation of ERAS are presented below.
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