The relationship of the herpesvirus family to sudden hearing loss: a prospective clinical study and literature review.

The herpesvirus family is associated with sudden hearing loss syndrome and the evidence includes clinical findings (HV-Z), temporal bone studies (CMV and HV-Z), and serologic studies. The data presented demonstrate that herpes infections, in association with sudden viral hearing loss, occur as part of a multiple viral infection in 70% of instances. This feature is unique to the herpesvirus infections when compared to other neurotropic viral agents. The study also demonstrates that the variables of viral hearing loss, such as degree of hearing loss, percentage of recovery, or the incidence of vertigo are unaffected by the presence of herpesvirus infection. Mechanisms for inner ear injury may be influenced by temporary alterations in cellular immunity secondary to simultaneous viral infections as well as the native virulence of the infecting herpesvirus.