Abstract
The treatment of drug-resistant (DR)-tuberculosis (TB) necessitates the use of second-line injectable anti-TB drugs which are associated with hearing loss. Hearing loss affects communication and the development of language and social skills in children. This review describes the pathophysiology of hearing loss and the testing methodologies that can be employed. It is the first paper to systematically review the literature regarding hearing loss in those treated for DR-TB. In the studies identified, the methodology used to test for and to classify hearing loss is inconsistent and children and those with HIV are poorly represented. This review describes existing guidelines and suggests management strategies when hearing loss is found. It describes the challenges of testing hearing in the developing world contexts where the majority of patients with DR-TB are treated. Finally it makes the recommendation that a standardised testing methodology and classification system should be used.
Footnotes
Support Statement
J.A. Seddon is supported by a grant from the Sir Halley Stewart Trust (Cambridge, UK). This funding source played no role in the content of the article.
Statement of Interest
None declared.
- Received March 14, 2012.
- Accepted May 20, 2012.
- ©ERS 2012