Objective: To study the effect of steroids on idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss
Design: Retrospective descriptive study
Material and methods: Idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISHL) cases from 1998-2001 were collected and reviewed for demographic data, especially the effect of steroids on ISHL. Factors influencing the recovery rate were evaluated.
Results: 45 patients were included in the study. The mean age was 43.2 years and 27 (60%) were women. The total hearing improvement was about 66.7%. The sex, age, time interval from the onset of symptoms to initiation of therapy as well as severity of sensorineural hearing loss had no significant connection with hearing recovery rates.
Conclusion: Steroids are effective in treating idiopathic sensorineural hearing loss, with a hearing recovery rate of 66.7%.