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A decade of innovative findings in the research of molecular biology of hearing and deafness is reflected in this volume. The genetic causes for many types of syndromic and non-syndromic deafness are identified and genotypic-phenotypic relationships are explored. Although the type and degree of deafness caused by mutations in different genes significantly overlap, relatively unique age-related audiometric profiles are also emerging. For example, the audioprofile of DFNA1 and DFNA6-14 is a low-frequency sensorineural hearing loss; with DFNA8-14 it is a mid-frequency sensorineural hearing loss, and with DFNA2, DFNA5 and DFNA20-26 it is a high-frequency progressive hearing loss. Recognizing such audioprofiles can facilitate well-guided decision-making in clinical practice and can direct genetic testing for deafness. With an accurate genetic diagnosis, prognostic information can be provided to patients and their families. In the future, gene-specific habilitation options may also become available. To keep up to date with new clinical standards of diagnosing genetic hearing impairment, this book is indispensable reading to otorhinolaryngologists and audiologists.

How can genetics be useful to general otorhinolaryngologists and their patients? This book summarizes the most recent information on genetic diseases, including deafness and head-and-neck cancer, that is relevant to clinical practice, particularly with reference to accurate genetic counseling. The first part of the volume presents a basic and general review of genetics. Up-to-date information on deafness genes is given and the mouse model for hearing impairment is thoroughly described. The application of molecular analysis of head-and-neck carcinoma has been one of the fundamental breakthroughs in understanding the cell biology of the carcinoma. Two chapters are devoted to the discussion of tumor suppressor genes and oncogenes. This book is highly recommended since genetics, particularly molecular genetics, is still an unfamiliar subject to otorhinolaryngologists.Yet there is a constant need to be alert to the possibility of diagnosing hereditary disorders and to obtain genetic consultation for a complete evaluation. A comprehensive list of references is given for those who wish to find more detailed information.