Characteristics of radiation-induced sensorineural hearing loss in head and neck cancer: a systematic review.

Abstract

Patients receiving radiotherapy (RT) for head and neck tumors are at risk of developing sensorineural hearing loss. The objective of this study was to analyze the literature regarding sensorineural hearing loss after RT for head and neck cancer. Seven databases were searched to identify eligible studies. Eligible articles were independently assessed for quality by 2 authors. Fourteen articles were evaluated. There was considerable heterogeneity among studies. The reported incidence of sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) varied from 0% to 85% for the speech frequencies and from 27% to 95% for high frequencies. As the follow-up increased, an increase in the incidence of SNHL was observed. The minimum cochlear dose reported to be a risk factor for SNHL was 45 Gy. High quality literature in the topic is lacking. Radiation-induced SNHL is progressive, permanent, and dose-dependent. Total dose and follow-up time are important factors affecting incidence rates.