Update on the sudden hearing loss

Aims: Sudden hearing loss is defined as a sensory neural hearing deafness of at least 30 dB in three consecutive speech frequencies that as occurred within the 3 days. It is a medical emergency and the treatment should start as soon as possible; up to now therapies are empirically addressed to improve hearing. Materials and Methods: We have evaluated 558 patients with a diagnosis of sudden hearing loss. In our study, we have investigated possible prognostic factors of hearing loss and their influence on the recovery of the pathology. Results and Discussion: Sudden hearing loss requires an immediate therapeutic intervention. The corticosteroid therapy remains the most accredited one at which are reported the most satisfactory results. We have recognized as negative prognostic factors hearing loss on acute frequencies in the audiometric exam, the presence of a severe-deep hearing loss and a delay in starting therapy. Conclusion: The sudden hearing loss is an otologic emergency which requires an immediate therapeutic intervention. The most accredited therapy remains the corticosteroid therapy. Frequencies we have recognized as negative prognostic factors hearing loss on acute frequencies. The presence of a severe-deep hearing loss, and a delay in starting therapy.