Emerging options in immune-mediated hearing loss.

OBJECTIVE

AIED (autoimmune inner ear disease) is an autoimmune process that leads to the dysfunction of the inner ear, resulting in fluctuating, audiovestibular symptoms. Although the pathogenesis is likely heterogeneous, immune processes within the inner ear ultimately lead to histopathologic changes and sensorineural hearing loss. This review will discuss the latest evidence on treatment options.

METHODS

A literature search on articles pertaining to the treatment of autoimmune inner ear disease was performed on PubMed.

RESULTS

Corticosteroid treatment continues to remain as first line therapy for AIED but long-term responsiveness is poor. Cytotoxic chemotherapies can be effective alternatives for steroid nonresponsive patients, but significant side effects may limit their use. Intratympanic steroid injections are beneficial and although there is not enough evidence currently to supplant oral steroid trial they may be a useful adjunct if steroid toxicity is an issue. The efficacy of biologic agents has been variable. Compared to placebo, etanercept does not improve the hearing improvement already attained by steroids alone. However, open pilot studies of other biologic agents show hearing improvements, improvements in tinnitus/aural fullness/vertigo, ability to wean steroid dependency, or benefits in steroid-resistant AIED.

CONCLUSION

There is currently not enough evidence that alternative treatments supersede the use of initial steroid treatment. Biologic agents and intratympanic steroid injections are relatively well tolerated and should be considered as adjunctive therapy. More studies on the efficacy of various biologics and more studies on the treatment of steroid resistant disease especially after initial benefit are still needed. For those who eventually lose their hearing, cochlear implantation remains as a viable option.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: expert opinion.