Presbycusis Flashcards
What is presbycusis?
Presbycusis is a progressive sensorineural hearing loss primarily affecting older adults.
Characterised by: bilateral high-frequency hearing impairment.
What is the pathophysiology of presbycusis?
Degeneration of cochlear hair cells and auditory neurons.
Exacerbated by vascular changes and systemic conditions.
What is the prevalence of presbycusis by age?
Prevalence increases with age: 25-30% in those aged 65-74; 40-50% in those over 75.
Which gender is more affected by presbycusis?
Males are more affected than females (55% vs. 45%).
What are the causes of presbycusis?
- genetic predisposition
- environmental factors
- systemic diseases
How does arteriosclerosis affect presbycusis?
Arteriosclerosis impairs cochlear perfusion.
What role does diabetes play in presbycusis?
Diabetes accelerates vascular changes.
How does noise exposure contribute to presbycusis?
Noise exposure has a cumulative effect over time.
What are some ototoxic drugs associated with presbycusis?
salicylates and certain chemotherapeutics.
What are common clinical presentations of presbycusis?
Patients typically report difficulties understanding speech, especially in noise, increased volume requirements for media devices, challenges with sound localisation, and occasional hyperacusis or tinnitus.
What does Weber’s test indicate in presbycusis?
Weber’s test may lateralise to the better ear if unilateral loss is present.
What does audiometry reveal in presbycusis?
Audiometry reveals a bilateral sensorineural pattern.
What does tympanometry typically show in presbycusis?
Tympanometry typically shows normal middle ear function (Type A).
