Complex level alterations of the 2f1–f2 distortion product due to hypoxia

Authors

• Ulrich Kisser^{a, , ,} ,
• Sven Becker^a,
• Berend Feddersen^b,
• Rainald Fischer^c,
• Gunther Fesl^d,
• Katrin Haegler^d,
• Rupert Grashey^e,
• C. Adderson-Kisser^a,
• Klaus Mees^a,
• Bernhard Olzowy^a

• ^a Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University of Munich, Germany
• ^b Department of Neurology, University of Munich, Germany
• ^c Department of Medicine, Division of Pneumology, Medizinische Klinik Innenstadt, University of Munich, Germany
• ^d Department of Neuroradiology, University of Munich, Germany
• ^e Department of Anaesthesiology, University of Munich, Germany

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Abstract

Objective

For diagnostic purposes and a better understanding of the pathophysiology of inner ear hearing disorders it would be of great interest to have parameters available that indicate inner ear hypoxia. 

In animal studies typical hypoxia-related alterations of the 2f₁–f₂ distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAE) such as a reversible level decrease and destabilization could be demonstrated. 

The goal of this study was to investigate whether these hypoxia-associated alterations can also be observed in humans because this might help develop a new diagnostic tool for patients with inner ear disorders.

Methods

In 16 volunteers DPOAE levels were continuously measured at first under normal room air conditions, during and after 8.5 h of oxygen deprivation (13% O₂) and during re-oxygenation. Saturation of oxygen of arterial blood (SaO₂) was monitored.

Results

The mean SaO₂ during the hypoxic interval was 78%. 

A significant decrease in DPOAE level under hypoxia occurred in five different test persons at one or more frequencies (f₂ = 1, 1.5, 2, 3, and 4 kHz). 

A destabilization of the DPOAE level with considerable fluctuations during hypoxia was observed in nine subjects at one or more frequencies. 

Furthermore, the so called ‘post hypoxia effect’ could be observed in five participants.

Conclusion

The observations made here have been described similarly in animal studies and seem to be characteristic of metabolic disorders of the cochlea caused by hypoxia. 

To our knowledge, this is the first study to examine DPOAE level alterations over time in humans under conditions of normobaric hypoxia. 

If DPOAE destabilization is observed in a clinical setting in patients with certain inner ear hearing disorders hypoxia can be suspected as one underlying pathophysiological cause which might influence treatment decisions.

Fuente: Auris Nasus Larynx, Available online 3 August 2013