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- Title
Normal Hearing Function in Children Prenatally Exposed to Zika Virus.
- Authors
Magalhães Barbosa, Maria Helena; Dutra Garcia, Cristiane Fregonesi; de Magalhães Barbosa, Maria Clara; Rodrigues Robaina, Jaqueline; Prata-Barbosa, Arnaldo; de Melo Tavares de Lima, Marco Antonio; Ledo Alves da Cunha, Antonio José
- Abstract
Introduction The association between prenatal Zika virus infection and hearing alterations in offspring has been the object of some studies, although few have assessed children without microcephaly. However, a current trend to include prenatal Zika virus exposure in the group of risk indicators for hearing loss is noted. Objective To present a series of 27 children prenatally exposed to the Zika virus submitted to multiple hearing assessments over time. Methods A cohort of children born to symptomatic mothers with laboratorial Zika virus infection confirmation during pregnancy was submitted to an otoacoustic emission test, auditory brainstem response test (automated, neurodiagnostic and frequency-specific), audiometry, and imitanciometry over a period of 36 months since birth. The hearing assessment was performed independently of the presence of microcephaly or other apparent signs of congenital Zika syndrome. Results The hearing tests presented predominantly normal results. Some children had signs of middle ear pathology. The only microcephalic child had normal electrophysiological tests, as well as preserved audiometric thresholds, but presented altered motor responses to sound. Conclusion Prenatal exposure to Zika virus does not always determine hearing impairment. This risk seems to be more associated to the severity of the central nervous system damage. Hearing screening and follow-ups of the affected children are important, as well as further research in this area.
- Subjects
ZIKA virus; ZIKA virus infections; HEARING impaired children; AUDIOMETRY; AUDITORY neuropathy; OTOACOUSTIC emissions
- Publication
International Archives of Otorhinolaryngology, 2020, Vol 24, Issue 3, p299
- ISSN
1809-9777
- Publication type
Article
- DOI
10.1055/s-0039-3399539