Case Report Rinsho Shinkeigaku 2015

Pneumococcal meningitis with accompanying severe hearing loss: 3D-FLAIR imaging of the inner ear and treatment

Hara N, Yunoki T, Kubo S, Fujii H, Takamatu K, Tanaka A, et al. — Rinsho Shinkeigaku, 2015

View Original on PubMed PMID 25746077

Tier 2, Indexed

Automatically imported from PubMed based on relevance criteria.

Summary

What Researchers Did

Researchers described the case of a 66-year-old man with pneumococcal meningitis who developed severe hearing loss, detailing his diagnosis, imaging findings, and treatment attempts.

What They Found

A 66-year-old man diagnosed with pneumococcal meningitis developed severe sensorineural hearing loss. Three-dimensional fluid-attenuated inversion recovery magnetic resonance imaging revealed increased signals and enhancement in the cochlea and vestibule, which persisted on day 52. Steroid pulse and hyperbaric oxygen therapies for hearing loss were discontinued due to aggravation of pre-existing hepatitis B and diabetes mellitus.

Canadian Relevance

This study has no direct Canadian connection.

Study Limitations

As a single case report, the findings are not generalizable to the broader patient population with pneumococcal meningitis.

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Study Details

Study Type	Case Report
Category	Sudden Hearing Loss
Source	Pubmed
PubMed ID	25746077
Year Published	2015
Journal	Rinsho Shinkeigaku
MeSH Terms	Aged; Diabetes Complications; Ear, Inner; Hearing Loss, Sensorineural; Hepatitis B; Humans; Hyperbaric Oxygenation; Imaging, Three-Dimensional; Magnetic Resonance Imaging; Male; Meningitis, Pneumococcal; Methylprednisolone; Pulse Therapy, Drug; Severity of Illness Index

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This study relates to Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss. Read the full clinical overview, the evidence base, and Canadian treatment access for this condition.

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Disclaimer: This study summary is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice. The information presented reflects the findings of the original research authors and may not represent the views of Canada Hyperbarics. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making treatment decisions.

Last reviewed: March 19, 2026 | Reviewed by: Canada Hyperbarics Editorial Team | Editorial process | Research sources | Counts & methodology