sensorineuraalisia

Sensorineuraalisia is a proposed neurological syndrome described in some medical discussions as involving both sensorineural impairment, typically of the inner ear, and signs of central nervous system involvement beyond the peripheral sensory system. It is presented as a broad spectrum condition rather than a single disease and lacks universally accepted diagnostic criteria.

Patients may exhibit sensorineural hearing loss, tinnitus, and balance problems, accompanied by neurological features such as ataxia, numbness, weakness, or cognitive changes. The onset and progression vary, with some individuals experiencing stable deficits and others showing gradual deterioration over months to years.

Proposed risk factors include genetic susceptibility, prior viral infections, exposure to ototoxic drugs, autoimmune processes, and metabolic or mitochondrial disorders. In many cases the cause remains unidentified, and a family history may or may not be present.

Pathophysiology is not established; hypotheses center on combined peripheral sensory degeneration and central nervous system involvement through demyelination, neuroinflammation, or energy metabolism impairment affecting multiple neural networks.

Diagnosis relies on a combination of tests. Audiometry confirms sensorineural loss; neurological examination assesses CNS involvement; MRI is used to evaluate structural lesions. Laboratory workup may include autoimmune panels, metabolic tests, and, when indicated, genetic testing to exclude other disorders.

Management is supportive and multidisciplinary. Hearing rehabilitation with aids or implants, physical therapy for motor symptoms, and treatment of comorbidities are common approaches. Immunotherapy or antiviral therapies are considered only in select cases under specialist care, and prognosis varies with the underlying factors.

The term is used in some literature to describe a spectrum rather than a defined disease, and no consensus criteria exist. Further study is needed to clarify definitions, causation, and best practices.