Hearing loss and Cortical Atrophy: A case study

Authors

Nithin Anand Kottikkulam, Kerala University of Health SciencesFollow
Sinju P. KandathilFollow
Badarunisa Mohamad Basheer, kerala university of health sciencesFollow

Abstract

Background Cerebral atrophy results from the loss of neurons and their connections with the brain. As dementia progresses, an increasing number of neural connections die off. Brain atrophy may potentially damage hearing capacity through the impairment of primary and secondary auditory centres which are located in the temporal lobe. While there is no proven evidence or definitive evidence that hearing loss results in cognitive decline and mental health issues, there is definitely some connection and several clues that experts are looking into.Through this case report, the occurrence of ARHL with a mild dementia is been highlighted. Documenting such cases would be helpful in creating the importance of rehabilitation of elderly population with a cognitive decline or dementia. Case report The present study describes a A 60 year old male individual was brought to the clinic with a complaint of reduced hearing sensitivity in both the ears since 3 to 4 years. Other otological symptoms such as blocked ear sensation, tinnitus and vertigo were also not reported. No family history of hearing loss reported. The earlier evaluations included Audiological and Radiological (CT) tests. Audiological evaluation revealed bilateral mild to moderate sensorineural hearing loss. Radiological evaluation showed structural abnormalities. Conclusions The patient presented in this case study had gone through multiple tests including Behavioural, Physiological, & Radiological evaluation. All the examinations suggests that hearing loss can lead to cortical atrophy which can in turn lead to other problems like cognitive decline and dementia. Hearing loss (HL) has recently been recognized as a risk factor for dementia; however, HL is a possible biomarker of and modifiable risk factor for cognitive decline, cognitive impairment, and dementia.

Recommended Citation

Anand Kottikkulam, Nithin; Kandathil, Sinju P.; and Basheer, Badarunisa Mohamad (2022) "Hearing loss and Cortical Atrophy: A case study," Manipal Journal of Medical Sciences: Vol. 7: Iss. 2, Article 9.
Available at: https://impressions.manipal.edu/mjms/vol7/iss2/9