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ABSTRACT: Cloroquine and hydroxychloroquine are quinoline compounds used in patens with malaria, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and systemic lupus erythematosus. Herein, we report two cases with bilateral sensineural hearing loss and tinnitus due to hydroxychloroquine and cloroquine therapy for RA. The first patient with RA had used hydroxychloroquine for four years and the second patient had used cloroquine for 11 years. The patients had sudden onset hearing loss and tinnitus complaints. In audiologic tests, both patients had reduced mean hearing threshold and speech discrimination scores. After the withdrawal of hydroxychloroquine and cloroquine treatment, the mean hearing threshold scores were not changed but the speech discrimination scores were improved in both patients. In conclusion, the possibility of drug induced ototoxicity should always be kept in mind in patients receiving hydroxychloroquine and cloroquine. We recommend a baseline audiometric test before prescribing antimalarial drugs and regular follow-ups with audiologic tests. Turk J Phys Med Rehab 2008;54:27-9.
Türkiye Fiziksel Tıp ve Rehabilitasyon Dergisi. 01/2008;
