Leflunomide-Associated Wound Complication After Cochlear Implantation: A Case Report

Introduction: Cochlear implantation has become an increasingly common strategy for aural rehabilitation in patients with severe to profound hearing loss who no longer benefit from conventional amplification. In conjunction, immunosuppressive therapies (e.g. disease-modifying anti rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) have become the keystone of management in numerous autoimmune conditions. Given the increasing prevalence of both, a greater proportion of patients will undergo cochlear implantation while on immune-modulating medications. While these medications are usually well tolerated, immunosuppression may put patients a higher risk for device infections. At present, this is not extensively studied within the cochlear implant literature. Methods: We conducted a retrospective chart review and review of the literature. Results: We present the case of an 81-year-old male who experienced wound dehiscence and infection secondary to leflunomide use for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Resolution of these issues was noted with a therapeutic drug holiday, and the patient has subsequently undergone re-implantation without issue. Conclusions: The case highlights a potential CI-associated wound complication in the setting of DMARD therapy. Given the increasing prevalence of both CIs and immunosuppressive therapy, future study on the potential for interaction is warranted to identify the best management strategy in the perioperative setting.