Hearing Loss Diagnosis
The differential diagnosis for hearing loss can be categorized into the following groups:
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Presbycusis: This is the most common cause of hearing loss, especially in individuals over 65 years old. It is a gradual, age-related decline in hearing ability, particularly affecting high-frequency sounds.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Otosclerosis: A condition where abnormal bone growth in the middle ear causes hearing loss, often affecting young adults.
- Noise-induced hearing loss: Prolonged exposure to loud noises can damage the hair cells in the inner ear, leading to hearing loss.
- Middle ear infections: Recurrent or chronic infections can cause hearing loss due to fluid buildup or damage to the middle ear structures.
- Meniere's disease: A disorder of the inner ear that affects balance and hearing, causing vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing loss.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Acoustic neuroma: A rare, benign tumor on the nerve connecting the inner ear to the brain, which can cause hearing loss, tinnitus, and balance problems. If left untreated, it can lead to serious complications.
- Ototoxicity: Certain medications or chemicals can damage the inner ear, leading to hearing loss. Early detection and discontinuation of the offending agent can prevent further damage.
- Sudden sensorineural hearing loss: A sudden, unexplained loss of hearing that requires prompt medical attention to potentially restore hearing.
- Rare diagnoses
- Usher syndrome: A genetic disorder that causes hearing loss and vision loss, often diagnosed in childhood.
- Pendred syndrome: A genetic disorder that causes hearing loss and thyroid problems, often associated with inner ear abnormalities.
- Autoimmune inner ear disease: A rare condition where the immune system attacks the inner ear, causing hearing loss and balance problems.
- Cochlear otosclerosis: A rare condition where abnormal bone growth in the inner ear causes hearing loss.