Vestibular and hearing manifestations of phenytoin toxicity: A retrospective series

Ear, Nose & Throat Journal,  June, 2001  by Juan I. De Diego,  Maria P. Prim,  Sol Marcos,  Maria J. De Sarria,  Javier Arpa,  Javier Gavilan

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Audiometric alterations (presbyacusis) are not linked to phenytoin toxicity, and hearing does not appear to be affected by toxic phenytoin levels. Neither of these findings has been previously reported. Unlike Manlapaz, [6] we found no case of abducens nerve palsy in our patients.

Ever since the first reports of phenytoin toxicity, dialysis (peritoneal and/or hemodialysis) and bed rest have been advocated as a useful treatment)8 Although death associated with phenytoin toxicity is rare, the possibility justifies such aggressive management. [14-16]

From the Department of Otorhinolaryngology (Dr. De Diego, Dr. Prim, Dr. Marcos, Dr. De Sarria, and Dr. Gavilan) and the Department of Neurology (Dr. Arpa), La Paz Hospital, Autonomous University, Madrid.

References

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