Considerations on the physiopathological mechanism of inner ear damage induced by intravenous cocaine abuse: Cues from a case report

OBJECTIVE: Aim of the following paper is to discuss about the possible etiopathogenetic mechanisms of inner ear damage induced by cocaine abuse. Unfortunately the data concerning this topic are very limited; the authors are then presenting a literature review, also discussing the clinical presentation and the possible therapeutical approach of a clinical case of bilateral sudden sensorineural hearing loss following i.v. injection of cocaine. PATIENTS: Case report. INTERVENTION: A strictly audiological evaluation has been performed, in order to identify the cochlear lesion site(s) and to provide the best medical treatment. CONCLUSIONS: To our knowledge, this is the first report of acute cocaine intoxication with sudden bilateral hearing loss. Further studies are required in order to understand the effects of these substances on the inner ear cells and metabolism.