Radiation-Induced Sensorineural Hearing Loss

Objective: To systematically review the literature to characterize radiation-induced sensorineural hearing loss for head and neck tumors. Method: Seven databases were searched to identify studies assessing the characteristics of sensorineural hearing loss caused exclusively by radiotherapy for head and neck cancer. Results: Fourteen articles were evaluated. The reported incidence of sensorineural hearing loss was higher on frequencies above 4 Hz (up to 95%) when compared to the speech frequencies. Radiation dose and follow-up time were important factors affecting incidence rates. Conclusion: Evidence demonstrates that the resulting SNHL is irreversible, progressive, and dose-dependent. High-quality literature regarding SNHL due to radiotherapy is lacking. Improved evaluation protocols should be adopted in the standard of care for patients undergoing radiotherapy.