Autoimmune Inner Ear Disease

Immune mediated, rapidly progressive hearing loss in both ears

Overview

Autoimmune inner ear disease is a rare condition in which the immune system is thought to damage the inner ear. It typically causes sensorineural hearing loss in both ears that progresses over weeks to months, faster than age related loss but slower than sudden hearing loss, and may be accompanied by tinnitus, fullness, and balance problems. It can occur on its own or alongside systemic autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus. Because hearing can sometimes be stabilized with immunosuppressive treatment, prompt specialist evaluation is emphasized.