Ototoksiske
Ototoksiske, or ototoxic, describes substances or exposures that can damage the inner ear or vestibulocochlear nerve, leading to hearing loss, tinnitus, or vertigo. The term classifies drugs and chemicals with potential cochlear or vestibular injury. Effects may be temporary or permanent and can affect one or both ears.
Mechanisms vary but commonly involve injury to cochlear hair cells, disruption of fluid balance in the inner
Well-known ototoxic agents include aminoglycoside antibiotics (gentamicin, amikacin, tobramycin), platinum chemotherapy (cisplatin), and loop diuretics (furosemide,
Risk factors include older age, pre-existing hearing loss, kidney dysfunction, dehydration, high cumulative dose, concurrent use
Clinical features typically include sensorineural hearing loss (often high-frequency and bilateral), tinnitus, and vertigo or dizziness.
Diagnosis relies on baseline and periodic audiometry during exposure, supplemented by high-frequency testing, otoacoustic emissions, and
Prevention and management focus on avoiding or limiting exposure, using the lowest effective dose, monitoring kidney
Prognosis varies; some cases are reversible, but many result in permanent deficits. Research continues on protective