arshit kataria

Electric shock occurs when electricity passes through the body, causing a range of symptoms from mild tingling to potentially life-threatening injuries such as burns, seizures, and cardiac arrest. In rare cases, Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SSNHL) has also been associated with an electric shock. 

Case Report:

A 35-year-old male presented with left-sided hearing loss following an electric shock. The audiometric evaluation revealed left Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). The patient was prescribed oral corticosteroids showing some improvement in hearing thresholds and was advised hearing aid for the residual SNHL. 

Limited literature exists on the association between high-voltage electric shocks and hearing loss. This case report highlights the importance of prompt evaluation and management of (SSNHL) in individuals affected by electric shock.

Pediatric sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) is a rare otological emergency. With the emergence of the Coronavirus 19 pandemic, alcohol-based hand sanitizers are among the essential household items. Many hand sanitizers are frequently coupled with scents that young children may find pleasant.

Case Report:

A 5-year-old girl presented to our clinic with hearing loss after the consumption of alcohol-based hand sanitizer. A pure tone audiogram showed bilateral SSNHL. The child was prescribed systemic corticosteroids resulted in a slight improvement in hearing thresholds. The child was followed up at 6 and 18 months showing no further improvement in hearing thresholds.

Although various infective, vascular, and immune responses have been proposed, alcohol-based hand sanitizer consumption has not been reported to present with SSNHL to the best of our knowledge. In the current scenario of the Coronavirus pandemic, otorhinolaryngologists must keep in mind that SSNHL may occur as a result of hazardous alcohol-based hand disinfectant consumption.