Hypothyroid-associated sensorineuronal deafness.

A case of panhypopituitarism with hypothyroid-induced deafness in a man improving with hormone replacement is reported. A review of the medical literature reveals conflicting evidence regarding the underlying mechanism and prognosis of the defect in this context, but the association with hypothyroidism is more than spurious. Sensorineuronal hearing loss was initially evident, resolving both subjectively and on formal audiological evaluation after administering thyroxine. Central pathology affecting the eighth cranial nerve, as opposed to a conductive or mixed component is the likely culprit.