Cochlea sparing effects of intensity modulated radiation therapy in head and neck cancers patients: A long-term follow-up study

• DOI: 10.1186/s40463-014-0030-x
• Publication Date: 2014-08-05T13:04:51Z
• Authors: Eleonoor AR Theun...; Charlotte L Zuur; Marta Lopez Yurda; Sieberen van der ...; Anne F Kornman; Jan Paul de Boer; Alfons JM Balm; Coen RN Rasch; Wouter A Dreschler
• Keywords: Audiogram; Pure tone audiometry; Subclinical infection

Background Radiation to the inner ear may lead (irreversible) sensorineural hearing loss. The purpose of this study was evaluate long-term effect radiotherapy on in patients treated with Intensity Modulated Therapy (IMRT), sparing from high radiation dose as much possible. Methods Between 2003 and 2006, 101 head neck cancer were IMRT. Audiometry performed before, short-term, after treatment. Data compared normal levels according International Organisation for Standardization (ISO). Statistical analysis done using repeated measurements. None received chemotherapy. Results In 36 an audiogram at follow-up (median 7.6 years) available. mean cochlea 17.8 Gy (1.0-66.6 Gy). A deterioration 1.8 dB Pure Tone Average (PTA) 0.5-1-2 kHz ( p = 0.11), 2.3 PTA 1-2-4 0.02), 4.4 8-10-12.5 0.01) found. According ISO, expected age-related loss 2.7, 4.8, 8.8 kHz, respectively. Conclusions After IMRT constraint cochlea, potential adverse effects remained subclinical. progressive over time mild could be attributed natural ageing. Therefore, we recommend that a should incorporated protocols.