Audiovestibular Manifestations in Autoimmune Disorders: A Case Clinical Control Study in Celiac Patients

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate audiovestibulopathy in patients with celiac disease using vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (VEMP), video head impulse test (vHIT), and audiometric examinations.

Material and Methods: Thirty-one patients with celiac disease from the gastroenterology department of Cerrahpasa Medical School, and 30 healthy controls were included in the study between 2013 and 2015. Pure tone audiometry, tympanometry, acoustic reflex test, and vestibular evaluation with VEMP and vHIT were performed in both groups. The anti-tissue transglutaminase IgA levels of all participants and disease duration of affected individuals were documented.

Results: The mean age±SD was 35.9±12.82 (27-48) years and 37.6±11.6 (26-48) years for the patient and control groups, respectively. The pure tone thresholds did not differ between the two groups. However, a subgroup of patients with high antibody levels had significantly higher high-frequency hearing thresholds. The two groups had similar VEMP test results, but a comparison of the vestibuloocular reflex (VOR) gains of six semicircular canals (SSC) revealed significant decreases in the right anterior canal in the patient group.

Conclusion: Subclinical audiovestibular pathologies can occur in patients with celiac disease. Following these patients with periodic audiovestibular test batteries may reduce patient morbidity by providing early diagnosis and rehabilitation.

Keywords

• Celiac disease
• VEMP
• vHIT
• vestibuloocular reflex

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