Sudden Hearing Loss as the Initial Manifestation of Chronic Myeloid Leukemia

Sudden hearing loss rarely presents as an initial manifestation of a hematologic disorder, although it can result from various factors. A 48-year-old male had sudden hearing loss in both ears. The pure tone audiometry and audiometry brainstem response revealed profound hearing loss in both ears. Further examination indicated an elevated leukocyte count, and a temporal bone magnetic resonance image suggested potential bleeding in the cochlear and labyrinth of both ears. Upon consultation with hematologic oncology, chronic myeloid leukemia was diagnosed. Hearing loss in leukemia patients is attributed to leukemic infiltration, hemorrhage, infection, and hyperviscosity. Following treatment using tyrosine kinase inhibitor for chronic myeloid leukemia, the leukocyte count was normalized. However, on the 90th day of treatment, both profound hearing loss persisted. We suspect that the cause of sudden hearing loss may be related to hemorrhage in both cochlear and labyrinth. Accurate diagnosis and treatment are essential for preventing complications.