Related Terms

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Background

• Aminoglycoside-induced deafness (AID) refers to the hearing loss that occurs in some people taking aminoglycosides, a type of antibiotic. Aminoglycosides, including streptomycin, gentamicin, kanamycin, tobramycin, and neomycin, are used to treat bacterial infections. Aminoglycosides are useful primarily in infections involving aerobic, Gram-negative bacteria, such as Pseudomonas, Acinetobacter, and Enterobacter. In addition, some Mycobacter bacteria, including the bacteria that cause tuberculosis, are susceptible to aminoglycosides. The most frequent use of aminoglycosides is for serious infections such as septicemia, complicated intra-abdominal infections, complicated urinary tract infections, and respiratory tract infections.
• A single genetic mutation in the MTRN1 gene, which encodes for a type of ribosomal ribonucleic acid (RNA), predisposes individuals to aminoglycoside-induced deafness. The MTRN1 gene is located within the mitochondrial deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and is passed on only from mother to child. Mitochondrial DNA is located in organelles called mitochondria, which are responsible for generating most of the cell's energy supply. Evidence has shown that even a single dose of an aminoglycoside antibiotic results in irreversible hearing loss in individuals with this mutation. However, the hearing loss is not dependent on aminoglycoside exposure. Some cases of AID may be caused by other genetic mutations. In about one-third of people who develop AID, a genetic mutation is present.
• Mitochondria are known as the "power houses" of cells that convert energy from food into a form that cells can use. While most of the DNA in the human body is contained in chromosomes inside the nucleus of the cell, the mitochondria contain 37 genes, all of which are necessary for normal mitochondrial function. Mitochondrial genes are inherited, or passed down among family members, from mother to child. Only maternal mitochondrial DNA is inherited.
• Researchers believe that the defective MTRN1 gene causes improper production of certain cells, called hair cells, in the cochlea, a part of the ear necessary for hearing. The genetic mutation associated with AID is present in about 1% of the U.S. population.
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Risk Factors

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Causes

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Signs and Symptoms

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Diagnosis

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Treatment

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Integrative Therapies

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Prevention

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Author Information

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References

Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to www.naturalstandard.com. Selected references are listed below.

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