1. Genetic Underpinnings and Audiological Characteristics in Children With Unilateral Sensorineural Hearing Loss
- Author
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Chen-Yu Lee, Pei-Hsuan Lin, Yu-Ting Chiang, Cheng-Yu Tsai, Shu-Yu Yang, You-Mei Chen, Chao-Hsuan Li, Chun-Yi Lu, Tien-Chen Liu, Chuan-Jen Hsu, Pei-Lung Chen, Jacob Shujui Hsu, and Chen-Chi Wu
- Subjects
Otorhinolaryngology ,Surgery - Abstract
ObjectiveUnilateral sensorineural hearing loss is a condition commonly encountered in otolaryngology clinics. However, its molecular pathogenesis remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the genetic underpinnings of childhood unilateral sensorineural hearing loss and analyze the associated audiological features.Study DesignRetrospective analysis of a prospectively recruited cohort Setting: Tertiary referral center Methods: We enrolled 38 children with unilateral sensorineural hearing loss and performed physical, audiological, imaging, and congenital cytomegalovirus examinations as well as genetic testing using next-generation sequencing targeting 30 deafness genes. The audiological results were compared across different etiologies.ResultsCausative genetic variants were identified in eight (21.1%) patients, including five withGJB2variants, two withPAX3variants, and one withEDNRBvariant.GJB2variants were associated with mild-to-moderate unilateral sensorineural hearing loss in various audiogram configurations, whereasPAX3andEDNRBvariants were associated with profound unilateral sensorineural hearing loss in flat audiogram configurations. In addition, whole genome sequencing and extended next-generation sequencing targeting 213 deafness genes were performed in two multiplex families compatible with autosomal recessive inheritance; yet no definite causative variants were identified. Cochlear nerve deficiency and congenital cytomegalovirus infection were observed in nine and two patients without definite genetic diagnoses.ConclusionGenetic underpinnings can contribute to approximately 20% of childhood unilateral sensorineural hearing loss, and different genotypes are associated with various audiological features. These findings highlight the utility of genetic examinations in guiding the diagnosis, counseling, and treatment of unilateral sensorineural hearing loss in children.
- Published
- 2023
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