Patulous Eustachian tube associated with hemodialysis

Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2007 Jun;264(6):601-5. doi: 10.1007/s00405-007-0243-y. Epub 2007 Jan 26.

Abstract

The objective of the present study is to demonstrate that hemodialysis (HD) is a possible causal factor for patulous Eustachian tube (ET). We present a representative case report and results of a mass examination in the HD unit. The present patient (a 55-year-old woman) reported aural fullness and autophony were often experienced after HD. The findings of eardrum and ET function tests revealed that her patulous ET condition was observed soon after HD and then disappeared until the next HD. A survey in the HD unit was carried out to identify patients who noticed patulous symptoms after HD. Patients underwent further examination, including detailed interview, otoscopy, and ET function tests with sonotubometry and tubo-tympano aerodynamic-graphy just before and soon after HD. The survey at the HD unit found 13 of 147 HD patients (8.8%) had HD-related patulous ET. Aural symptoms occurring after HD are frequently caused by patulous ET.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Chi-Square Distribution
  • Ear Diseases / etiology*
  • Ear Diseases / physiopathology*
  • Eustachian Tube / physiopathology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Kidney Failure, Chronic / therapy
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Renal Dialysis / adverse effects*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires