A new systemic review of case reports and case studies related to otologic dysfunction in patients with the novel SARS‐CoV‐2 was published in Laryngoscope Investigative Otolaryngology.
Related article: ‘BMJ’ Publishes ‘First Reported UK Case’ of Sudden Hearing Loss Linked to COVID-19
Researchers from the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg, South Africa, reviewed 7 studies/reports involving patients with hearing loss. Based on the review, they concluded that “SARS‐CoV‐2 is a probable cause of middle ear infections and sensorineural hearing loss, secondary to spread of the novel virus into the middle ear and related neural structures.”
Currently, there is no evidence that SARS-CoV-2 is present in the middle ear, however, the authors note the “significance of confirming the presence of SARS‐CoV‐2 is important in fully elucidating the clinical presentations of COVID‐19 and recognizing that viral particles can shed during examination and surgical procedures within this area creating potential infection risks.”
To read the paper in full, please click here.
Original Paper: Maharaj S, Alvarez MB, Mungul S, Hari K. Otologic dysfunction in patients with COVID‐19: A systematic review. Laryngoscope Investigative Otolaryngology.2020:1-5.
Source: Laryngoscope Investigative Otolaryngology
Another fabricated news item.Its just a coincidence that a hidden comorbidity surfaced at the time of the COVID strike. There is no established proof of hearing loss creation!