DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sasjs.2025.v11i12.009

Pages: 1114-1116

Idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSNHL) is an otologic emergency. The COVID-19 pandemic has raised questions regarding SARS-CoV-2 as a potential etiological agent for sudden sensorineural hearing loss. This study aimed to analyze the epidemiological profile and prognostic factors of ISSNHL over a period including the COVID-19 pandemic and to investigate the potential link with SARS-CoV-2 infection. A single-center retrospective study was conducted, including 23 patients managed for unilateral ISSNHL between January 2020 and January 2025. Demographic, clinical, and audiometric data, COVID-19 infection status, and therapeutic outcomes were analyzed. The mean age was 43 years. A male predominance was observed (78.3%, M/F sex ratio=3.6). Five patients (21.7%) had a positive SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR at the time of ISSNHL diagnosis. COVID-19 positive patients presented with a more severe initial hearing loss on average. The overall complete recovery rate was 26.1%. The presence of an active COVID-19 infection and age > 45 years were associated with a less favorable prognosis. This study suggests a possible association between active SARS-CoV-2 infection and the occurrence or severity of ISSNHL. Classic prognostic factors (age, initial severity) remain determining. SARS-CoV-2 screening should be considered in the etiological workup of ISSNHL, especially in a pandemic context. Increased vigilance is recommended for these patients who may present with more severe forms.