Question
I recently came across an article discussing a person with the diagnosis of Cochlear Otosclerosis? Exactly what does the diagnosis of Cochlear Otosclerosis entail? I am assuming a person must have Otosclerosis of the middle ear first in order to get Cochlear otosclerosis? Also I realize it causes SNHL, but what sort of damage does it do to the Inner ear? Some sources mention it causes permanent SNHL but that some medications may be prescribed to prevent further damage. From the House Ear Institute website, it states "in selected cases medication may be prescribed in an attempt to prevent further nerve impairment." What kind of medications are prescribed?Answer
Yes you are correct, a person must have Otosclerosis of the middle ear first. Cochlear otosclerosis usually occurs in long standing case of otosclerotic fixation of the stapes where the disease process invades the otic capsule. This will begin and usually is contained in the basal turn of the cochlea. The otosclerosis process usually causes a conductive loss. As the disease invades the otic capsule a concomitant sensorineural loss will appear. Radiographic studies (High resolution CT scan) may sometimes reveal the otosclerotic lesion. In the demineralizing or spongiotic stage, normally sharp outline of the capsule becomes interrupted and can disappear. There are reports of otosclerotic invasion of the semicircular canals where dizziness may be a symptom as well.
Treatment for cochlear otosclerosis can include a sodium fluoride regimen. This is used as an attempt to retard or prevent further sensorineural hearing loss. This treatment is not considered a cure but a management technique.
George Cire is the Clinical Manager for Bone Anchored Solutions at Cochlear Americas in Englewood, CO. Dr. Cire received his Au.D from A. T . Still University, School of Health Sciences in Mesa, AZ. Dr. Cire has been working in the Audiology field for 29 years.
