[Epidemiology of profound neurosensory deafness in Lebanese children].

The prevalence of profound sensorineural deafness in childhood is about 1/1000. 274 children attending seven specialized Lebanese institutions were examined. The aim of this study is to evaluate the distribution of the different etiologies of this type of deafness in Lebanon: 51.82% are of genetic causes (25.2% due to consanguinity); 32.84% of acquired causes, the most frequent etiologies were rubella and perinatal meningitis; 15.32% of unknown etiologies. The new acquisitions in term of genetic counseling are discussed.