J M Vahl1, E Goldberg-Bockhorn2, T K Hoffmann2, M C Wigand2. 1. Klinik für Hals‑, Nasen‑, Ohrenheilkunde und Kopf-Hals-Chirurgie, Universitätsklinikum Ulm, Frauensteige 12, 89070, Ulm, Deutschland. julius-malte.vahl@uniklinik-ulm.de. 2. Klinik für Hals‑, Nasen‑, Ohrenheilkunde und Kopf-Hals-Chirurgie, Universitätsklinikum Ulm, Frauensteige 12, 89070, Ulm, Deutschland.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Hearing loss leads to impairments in communication, social interactions, and cognitive functions. This renders early treatment particularly important. A causal therapy is not yet available. Human and animal studies have shown that certain hormones can have a positive effect on hearing. OBJECTIVE: This review provides an overview of the effects of various hormones on hearing and describes the potential benefit for future therapeutic approaches. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A systematic literature review of reviews dealing with the effects of various hormones on hearing in humans and animals published in PubMed between 2015 and 2020 was conducted. RESULTS: Hormones may mediate antiapoptotic effects on structure-relevant cells of the cochlea and auditory pathway, and may influence hair cell functionality or the electrolyte balance of the endo- and perilymph. Current research focuses on glucocorticoids; the mineral corticoid aldosterone; the sex hormones estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone; the growth hormones GH (growth hormone) and IGF‑1 (insulin-like growth factor 1); thyroid hormones; and insulin. Study results are still inconsistent at this time, but various hormones appear to represent a possible future treatment option for acute hearing loss. Long-term hormone treatment, which would be necessary particularly in the case of age-related hearing loss, does not currently represent a sensible course of action due to the side effect profile of the systemic treatment/lack of practicable topical application options. CONCLUSION: The mode of action of hormones is complex. Whether they can be used in the future for individualized treatment of patients with acute hearing impairment requires further investigation.
BACKGROUND: Hearing loss leads to impairments in communication, social interactions, and cognitive functions. This renders early treatment particularly important. A causal therapy is not yet available. Human and animal studies have shown that certain hormones can have a positive effect on hearing. OBJECTIVE: This review provides an overview of the effects of various hormones on hearing and describes the potential benefit for future therapeutic approaches. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A systematic literature review of reviews dealing with the effects of various hormones on hearing in humans and animals published in PubMed between 2015 and 2020 was conducted. RESULTS: Hormones may mediate antiapoptotic effects on structure-relevant cells of the cochlea and auditory pathway, and may influence hair cell functionality or the electrolyte balance of the endo- and perilymph. Current research focuses on glucocorticoids; the mineral corticoid aldosterone; the sex hormones estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone; the growth hormones GH (growth hormone) and IGF‑1 (insulin-like growth factor 1); thyroid hormones; and insulin. Study results are still inconsistent at this time, but various hormones appear to represent a possible future treatment option for acute hearing loss. Long-term hormone treatment, which would be necessary particularly in the case of age-related hearing loss, does not currently represent a sensible course of action due to the side effect profile of the systemic treatment/lack of practicable topical application options. CONCLUSION: The mode of action of hormones is complex. Whether they can be used in the future for individualized treatment of patients with acute hearing impairment requires further investigation.
Authors: Manuel H Aguiar-Oliveira; Anita H O Souza; Carla R P Oliveira; Viviane C Campos; Luíz A Oliveira-Neto; Roberto Salvatori Journal: Eur J Endocrinol Date: 2017-04-20 Impact factor: 6.664
Authors: Monique Antunes de Souza Chelminski Barreto; Aleluia Lima Losno Ledesma; Carlos Augusto Costa Pires de Oliveira; Fayez Bahmad Journal: Braz J Otorhinolaryngol Date: 2015-11-06