Influencing Factors of Survival in Hypopharyngeal Squamous Cell Cancer.

Objectives: This study examined the effects of various factors on survival in hypopharyngeal cancer, involving a total of 100 patients. Methods: Comorbidities, treatment modalities, survival times, and potential factors affecting survival were retrospectively analysed. The expression of p16 was also examined. A statistical analysis was conducted using IBM SPSS V25 software. Results: The mean overall survival time was determined to be 30.8 months. Smoking was observed in 95%, and regular alcohol consumption was reported in 75% of the cases. The expression of p16 did not significantly affect survival (p = 0.74) or the maximum tumour size (p = 0.21). The Kaplan-Meier method demonstrated significantly longer survival times (p = 0.047 *) in the group that underwent partial pharyngolaryngectomy with or without adjuvant therapy (median: 75.25 months, 95% CI: 31.57-118.93), compared to the other four treatment groups (i.e., total laryngectomy with pharyngectomy with or without adjuvant therapy, chemoradiation, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy). Conclusions: The study found that factors such as sex, comorbidities (e.g., type 2 diabetes and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), TNM and stage, weight loss, smoking, and alcohol consumption did not have a significant effect on survival. In conclusion, the longest survival was observed after partial pharyngolaryngectomy with or without adjuvant therapy. Risk factors and comorbidities did not show a significant effect on survival. p16 expression was not a factor that affected either survival or tumour size.

Audiological outcomes after revision stapes surgeries: a systematic review.

PURPOSE: Revision stapes surgery is a challenging procedure performed in relatively small numbers compared to other middle ear procedures. Despite numerous data on hearing results of different middle ear surgeries, the audiological standards for successful outcome of this procedure are still not clarified. On the basis of well-documented data, we wanted to determine what the expected audiological results and complications are after revision stapes surgery in order to set a realistic threshold for surgical success. METHODS: After the protocol registration in the PROSPERO database, a systematic review was performed in multiple databases (PubMed, Cochrane, Web of Science, Scopus, ScienceOpen, ClinicalTrials.gov, Google Scholar) according to PRISMA guidelines. Twelve articles were reviewed according to the inclusion criteria. A total of 1032 cases were obtained for evaluation. A modified version of Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) was used to assess publication quality. RESULTS: Average air-bone gap (ABG) gain was 17.3 dB, average air conduction (AC) gain was 17.5 dB. The average postoperative air-bone gap was 11.1 dB. The postoperative ABG distribution was the following 0-10 dB: 53.3%, > 10-20 dB: 28.2%, > 20 dB: 18.5%. SNHL as a surgical complication was described in a total of 17 cases (1.6%), no equilibrium disorder was reported. CONCLUSION: The pooled data suggest that revision stapes surgery is an effective solution after failure of previous stapes surgery. However, the results are clearly inferior to those of primary stapedotomies. Hence, we need to apply different expectations and use different standards in the indication and evaluation of this type of surgery.

Patient delay and its clinical significance among head and neck cancer patients in Hungary.

Introduction: Head and neck cancers represent a major health problem in Hungary. With their high incidence and mortality rates, Hungary is one of the world leaders in these indicators. The length of patient delay, defined as time from onset of symptoms to first medical consultation, is unknown in Hungarian patients with head and neck cancer. We aimed to use a representative sample of the Hungarian head and neck cancer patient population to determine patient delay according to disease localization and stage and to identify correlations with other clinical parameters. Methods: In our retrospective study, we reviewed patient documentation. For the inclusion, the patients had to be diagnosed with malignant tumors of the oral cavity, oropharynx, hypopharynx or larynx at the Department Head and Neck Surgery of Semmelweis University between 2012 and 2017. Results: We identified 236 patients who met the inclusion criteria. The median delay was 9.5 weeks (range 0-209 weeks) and the mean delay of patients was 17.57 weeks (SD 23.67). There was a significant difference in patient delay data by location. Among glottic cancers, the most common diagnosis was an early stage (67%), compared with other localizations, including most commonly the oropharynx (81%) and hypopharynx (80%), where a locoregionally advanced stage was more frequent. Discussion: Compared to data from different countries, the delay of Hungarian patients with head and neck cancer is significantly longer, which may contribute to the high mortality in Hungary. Screening and patient education in high-risk groups could contribute to earlier diagnosis and thus improve prognosis.

Management of Odontogenic Sinusitis: Results with Single-Step FESS and Dentoalveolar Surgery.

OBJECTIVE: Odontogenic sinusitis (OS) is a well-known and important border of specialties in otorhinolaryngology and dentoalveolar surgery. Odontogenic sinusitis can develop due to iatrogenic harm or odontogenic infection. The gold standard diagnostic method is clinical and radiological-CBCT (cone beam computed tomography)-examination. The treatment of this condition requires collaboration between ENT and dentoalveolar surgery specialists and can be non-surgical or surgical based on staging. This paper aims to share the results of our clinical study whereby complex therapy was administered by a dentoalveolar surgeon and an otorhinolaryngologist in cooperation. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We conducted a retrospective study comprising 111 OS patients who underwent complex therapy between 2016 and 2023 at Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary. All patients were treated with concurrent FESS (functional endoscopic sinus surgery) and dentoalveolar surgery. Follow-up was based on symptoms, clinical examination and CBCT imaging. RESULTS: Of the 111 patients, 107 were successfully treated with concurrent FESS and dentoalveolar surgery, and only 4 had further symptoms following the complex therapy and needed retreatment. CONCLUSIONS: The complex, single-session therapy involving FESS and oral surgery is an effective treatment method, which is less invasive and associated with fewer complications compared to previous interventions, such as the Luc-Caldwell procedure.

Specific nasopharyngeal Corynebacterium strains serve as gatekeepers against SARS-CoV-2 infection.

The SARS-CoV-2 virus is still causing a worldwide problem. The virus settles primarily on the nasal mucosa, and the infection and its course depend on individual susceptibility. Our aim was to investigate the nasopharynx composition's role in the individual susceptibility. During the first phase of SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, nasopharyngeal microbiome samples of close contact unvaccinated patients were investigated by 16S rRNA analysis and by culturing. The whole genome of cultured Corynebacteria was sequenced. The relative expression of ACE2, TMPRSS2, and cathepsin L on Caco-2 cells and the strength of S1-ACE2 binding were determined in the presence of Corynebacteria. From 55 close contacts exposed to identical SARS-CoV-2 exposure, 26 patients became infected and 29 remained uninfected. The nasopharyngeal microbiome analysis showed significantly higher abundance of Corynebacteria in uninfected group. Corynebacterium accolens could be cultivated only from uninfected individuals and Corynebacterium propinquum from both infected and uninfected. Corynebacteria from uninfected patient significantly reduced the ACE2 and cathepsin L expression. C. accolens significantly reduced the TMPRSS2 expression compared to other Corynebacteria. Furthermore, Corynebacterium spp. weakened the binding of the S1-ACE2. Most C. accolens isolates harbored the TAG lipase LipS1 gene. Based on these results, the presence of Corynebacterium spp. in the nasopharyngeal microbiota, especially C. accolens strains, could reduce the individual susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection by several mechanisms: by downregulation the ACE2, the TMPRSS2 receptors, and cathepsin L in the host; through the inhibition of S1-ACE2 binding; and lipase production. These results suggest the use of C. accolens strains as probiotics in the nasopharynx in the future.

[Hearing rehabilitation in postmeningitis deafness in the context of the time factor]. / Agyhártyagyulladás okozta súlyos fokú sensorineuralis halláscsökkenés rehabilitációs esélyei az idofaktor tekintetében.

INTRODUCTION: Postmeningitis deafness appears in 0-11% of the meningitis cases. Cochlear ossification can develop in these patients, which may make the hearing rehabilitation impossible with cochlear implantation. Due to ossification, it is critical to refer patients to the implant centre without any delay. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to examine the time factor between the appearance of deafness and the first examination in a cochlear implant centre, the possibilities and effectivity of hearing rehabilitation. METHOD: In our tertial referral centre, postmeningitis deafened patients were examined between 2014 and 2022 retrospectively. Hearing results, imaging, possibilities of rehabilitation, complications of cochlear implantations and the hearing results were investigated. RESULTS: 8 patients (3 children, 5 adults) were investigated. The time between the start of deafness and the first appearance varied between 3 weeks to 9 years. Bilateral profound hearing loss was measured in all patients. In 6 cases, cochlear ossification was observed (4 patients bilateral). Cochlear implantation was conducted in 5 patients (4 bilateral, 1 unilateral). In 3 cases, implantation was impossible due to severe ossification. Hearing results showed good hearing levels with poor speech perception in all cases. DISCUSSION: The rehabilitation of severe hearing loss caused by meningitis can present many challenges to clinicians. A critical point in the care is the urgent referral of patients to a cochlear implantation centre as soon as possible after the life-threatening condition has passed. The implementation of further diagnostic and the earliest possible implantation is the responsibility of the implantation centre itself. CONCLUSION: It is recommended to develop a new protocol with the involvement of allied professions to clear patient pathways for an effective treatment strategy. Orv Hetil. 2023; 164(19): 729-738.

Changes in the cochlear and retrocochlear parts of the auditory system in 19-39 and 40-60 years old patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus.

Pathophysiological alterations in the cochlea and functional tests of the auditory pathway support that in diabetes both vasculopathy and neural changes could be present. The aim of our research was to study the differential effect of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) on two different age groups. Audiological investigation was carried out in 42 patients and 25 controls at the same age groups. Investigation of the conductive and sensorineural part of the hearing system by pure tone audiometry, distortion product otoacoustic emission measurement and acoustically evoked brainstem response registration were evaluated. Among the 19-39-year-old people the incidence of hearing impairment was not different in the diabetes and control groups. Among the 40-60-year-old people hearing impairment was more common in the diabetes group (75%) than in the control group (15,4%). Among patients with type 1 diabetes, the mean threshold values were higher in both age groups at all frequencies although significant difference was in 19-39 years old group: 500-4000Hz right ear, 4000Hz left ear, in 40-60 years old group: 4000-8000 Hz both ears. In the 19-39 years old diabetes group only at 8000 Hertz on the left side was a significant (p<0,05) difference in otoacoustic emissions. In the 40-60 years old diabetes group significantly less otoacoustic emissions at 8000 Hz on the right side (p<0,01) and at 4000-6000-8000 Hertz on the left side, (p<0,05, p<0,01, p<0,05 respectively) was present compared to the control group. According to ABR (auditory brainstem response) latencies and wave morphologies, a possible retrocochlear lesion arose in 15% of the 19-39 years old and 25% of the 40-60 years old diabetes group. According to our results, T1DM affects negatively the cochlear function and the neural part of the hearing system. The alterations are more and more detectable with aging.

[Role of anthropometric parameters in percutaneous tracheostomies performed on cadavers]. / Az antropometriai paraméterek szerepe a cadaveren végzett percutan tracheostomás módszerekben.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: For patients requiring prolonged mechanical ventilation, tracheostomy becomes necessary, which may be performed through surgical or percutaneous methods. In this study, we used three different methods of percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy. Our goal was to identify anthropometric parameters relevant for the correct position of the tracheostomy tube. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Randomized, controlled observational study was performed on 118 cadavers. Three different tracheostomy methods were used: the Griggs (n = 37), the Griggs modified by Élo (n = 45), and the Ciaglia's Blue Rhino (n = 36). The neck circumference, jugulomental distance, and mid-upper arm circumference were measured on each cadaver. We assessed whether the aforementioned parameters related with the appropriate positioning of the tracheostomy tube Results: Significant correlation was found (p = 0.0287) between mid-upper arm circumference and incorrect tracheostomy tube position (below the fourth tracheal cartilage ring). We identified the value of 30 cm of mid-upper arm circumference as the ideal cut-off for predicting tube malposition (sensitivity: 63.63%, specificity: 60.22%). CONCLUSION: When planning percutaneous tracheostomy, it is important to measure the anthropometric parameters. If mid-upper arm circumference is 30 cm or higher we recommend other tests and/or ENT (ear, nose, and throat) consultation. Orv Hetil. 2023; 164(16): 630-635.

A radioanatomical study of 3rd segment terminal branches of the maxillary artery in the pterygopalatine fossa.

This study describes the clinical anatomical topography and relationship of the terminal branches of the maxillary artery to the bony wall of the maxillary sinus in the pterygopalatine fossa (PPF) to estimate the bleeding risk during surgical interventions. Using contrasted computer tomography records, (i) the route of the maxillary artery in the infratemporal fossa, (ii) the number of the arteries in the critical PPF surgery plane, (iii) the diameter of the largest artery in the area and (iv) its relation to the posterior wall of the maxillary sinus were examined. Furthermore, measurements were extended with (v) the minerality of the bony posterior wall of the maxillary sinus on bone-window images. For statistical analyses Student's t- and Fisher-test were applied. 50 patients (n = 50, 100 cases including both sides) were examined in this study. The maxillary artery reached the pterygomaxillary fissure on the lateral side of the lateral pterygoid muscle in 56% of the cases (n = 32), in 37% (n = 23) on its medial side and in 7% (n = 4) on both sides. The number of arteries at the level of the Vidian canal in the PPF varied between 1 and 4 with a median of 2. The diameter of the biggest branch was 1.2-4.7 mm, the median diameter was 1.90 mm. In 41% (n = 30) of the cases the biggest artery directly contacted the posterior wall of the maxillary sinus, and the mineral density of the posterior wall was decreased in 14.3% (n = 12) of all investigated cases. The present description and statistical analysis of the vasculature of the PPF optimizes operative planning-like clip size or the type and direction of the surgical approach-in this hidden and deep head/neck region.

The Correlation between the Results of the Sniffin' Sticks Test, Demographic Data, and Questionnaire of Olfactory Disorders in a Hungarian Population after a SARS-CoV-2 Infection.

BACKGROUND: After a severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, smell disorders frequently occur, significantly affecting patients' quality of life (QoL). METHODS: 110 patients with persistent olfactory disorder after coronavirus infection were enrolled. These patients underwent chemosensory testing using the Sniffin' Sticks test, and completed the Questionnaire of Olfactory Disorders (QOD). RESULTS: 30% of the patients reported anosmia, and 70% reported hyposmia. Upon comparing subjective and chemosensory testing categories, good category matching was observed in 75.3% (i.e., anosmia based on both methods in 10 and hyposmia in 48 cases). Statistical analysis using the Chi-square test revealed a significant result (p = 0.001 *). Between the TDI (i.e., Threshold, Discrimination, Identification) results of the three subjective report groups (i.e., hyposmia, anosmia, and parosmia), no significant differences were observed. When the TDI and QOD results were compared, no consistent significant correlations were found in most TDI and QOD outcomes. Between the TDI and Scale 2 results, a significant, although slight correlation was observed by the Spearman's (rho = 0.213, p = 0.027 *) and Pearson's (rho = 0.201, p = 0.037 *) tests. CONCLUSIONS: The nonsignificant correlation between objective and subjective methods suggests that these results should be interpreted independently. Moreover, adequate management is essential even in mild cases.

Primary ossiculoplasties provide better hearing results than revisions: a retrospective cohort study.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the efficacy of ossicular chain reconstruction (OCR) in primary and revision surgeries, and to investigate the impact of the number of previous surgeries on hearing outcomes. METHODS: Retrospective analysis of cases with OCR due to chronic otitis in a tertiary center between January 2018 and September 2021. RESULTS: Altogether, 147 cases of ossicle involvement were assessed. In 91.83% (n = 135) OCR was performed, 96.26% of them with titanium TORP/PORP (n = 130), two cases with autologous prosthesis and three with piston. Mean follow-up was 8.8 months. The ABG significantly improved in the total group (TORP/PORP) from a mean (SD) of 30.94 (15.55) to 19.76 (13.36) dB (p < 0.0001) with 60.86% success. The best results were achieved in primary OCR with PORP implantation without cholesteatoma (89.47%). Primary cases have a significantly higher success rate in contrary to revision surgeries (72.27%, vs. 52.00%, p = 0.032). The only relevant predictive factor proved to be the fact of revision (p = 0.029). A statistically significant correlation between the number of previous surgeries and hearing results could not be proved. There was no difference in hearing outcomes between patients with only one or more than one previous surgeries in the revision groups. Neither the presence of cholesteatoma, nor the type of OCR (TOPR/PORP) and the indication of revision had an impact on postoperative ABG. CONCLUSIONS: Titanium prostheses are effective in OCR both in primary and revision cases. It is not the number of previous surgeries, but the fact of revision that influences postoperative hearing results.

[Recognition and complex diagnostics of functional hearing loss]. / A funkcionális halláscsökkenés felismerése és komplex diagnosztikája.

INTRODUCTION: Hearing loss is a sensory impairment that impairs speech understanding, communication and therefore the quality of life. Sometimes the patient's perceived loss of function is exaggerated; subjective and objective test results are inconsistent, the subjectively reported hearing loss is more significant, and in these cases functional hearing loss is considered. OBJECTIVE: Our aim was to collect and retrospectively analyze cases with the diagnosis of functional hearing loss, in order to draw conclusions about the characteristics of functional hearing loss, the signs and conditions that may be of attention and the consideration of appropriate rehabilitation. METHODS: Subjective tests were performed with pure-tone auditory threshold, speech understanding and communication tests, which were compared with the results obtained with objective impedance measurements, stapedial reflex tests, otoacoustic emission measurements, and brainstem evoked response recordings. Imaging studies, psychologist, psychiatrist, neurologist, neurologist and other co-specialists were involved as needed. We excluded cases of deception deliberately intended to obtain financial or other benefits. RESULTS: Between 2007 and 2022, 19 patients were diagnosed with functional hearing loss. The majority (17 cases) were female, the complaints were prevalent at a young age (10-41 years); the average age in the study population was 19.6 years, and the majority of patients (13 cases) were children aged 10-17 years. No organic cause was found in 11 cases, and in the remaining cases no detectable organic abnormality explained the extent of the hearing loss experienced by the patient. The degree of functional hearing loss varied (35-120 dB), with an average of 60,2 dB. CONCLUSION: Recognizing and diagnosing functional hearing loss is very difficult and requires a complex series of tests and professional cooperation. Without recognition, the patient may receive unjustified, even harmful and financially burdensome care, which may lead to the deterioration of his condition. Orv Hetil. 2023; 164(8): 283-292.

MEK Is a Potential Indirect Target in Subtypes of Head and Neck Cancers.

The poor prognosis of head-and-neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is partly due to the lack of reliable prognostic and predictive markers. The Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK signaling pathway is often activated by overexpressed epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and stimulates the progression of HNSCCs. Our research was performed on three human papillomavirus (HPV)-negative HNSCC-cell lines: Detroit 562, FaDu and SCC25. Changes in cell viability upon EGFR and/or MEK inhibitors were measured by the MTT method. The protein-expression and phosphorylation profiles of the EGFR-initiated signaling pathways were assessed using Western-blot analysis. The EGFR expression and pY1068-EGFR levels were also studied in the patient-derived HNSCC samples. We found significant differences between the sensitivity of the tumor-cell lines used. The SCC25 line was found to be the most sensitive to the MEK inhibitors, possibly due to the lack of feedback Akt activation through EGFR. By contrast, this feedback activation had an important role in the FaDu cells. The observed insensitivity of the Detroit 562 cells to the MEK inhibitors might have been caused by their PIK3CA mutation. Among HNSCC cell lines, EGFR-initiated signaling pathways are particularly versatile. An ERK/EGFR feedback loop can lead to Akt-pathway activation upon MEK inhibition, and it is related not only to increased amounts of EGFR but also to the elevation of pY1068-EGFR levels. The presence of this mechanism may justify the combined application of EGFR and MEK inhibitors.

The prognostic role of ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging in obstructive sleep apnoea based on lateral oropharyngeal wall obstruction.

PURPOSE: This study examined the prognostic value of the lateral pharyngeal wall (LPW)-based obstruction and obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) prediction using ultrasound (US) and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). METHODS: One hundred patients with and without OSA were enrolled, according to overnight polysomnography. The LPW thickness (LPWT) was measured using a Philips Ingenia 1.5 T MRI device, and US measurements were carried out at rest and during Müller's manoeuvre (MM) with a Samsung RS85 device. The obstruction was localised under drug-induced sleep endoscopy. RESULTS: Significantly greater LPWT using MRI was observed in the OSA group compared to the control group, while US results showed a significant difference only in the case of LPWT during MM on the left side. Obese patients presented significantly higher LPWT values. A significant correlation between BMI and LPWT was observed. Men presented significantly higher LPWT MRI values and left-sided LPWT using US compared to women. LPWT and AHI parameters were significantly correlated. The severity of LPW obstruction correlated with LPWT, while the LPW collapse significantly correlated with AHI. The severity of LPW collapse differed depending on the AHI values. Using US LPWT values and anthropometric parameters, a 93% effectiveness in OSA prognostication and 89% in LPWT-based obstruction were detected. MRI detected OSA in 90% and LPW-based obstruction in 84%. US successfully detected LPW-based collapse severity in 67%. CONCLUSION: US LPWT measurements were helpful in detecting OSA and LPWT-based obstruction. These examinations may be useful for surgical planning.

Comparison between caloric and video-head impulse tests in Ménière's disease and vestibular neuritis.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the diagnostic accuracies of air caloric testing with electronystagmography and the vHIT (video-head impulse test). DESIGN: Prospective, controlled study. STUDY SAMPLE: MD (Ménière's disease), 26; vestibular neuritis, 27; control, 56. RESULTS: In MD, CP (canal paresis) was pathological in 88.5%, the GA (gain asymmetry) on vHIT was pathological in 65.3%, and the gain was abnormal in only one patient. The GA and CP, were significantly higher in the MD group than in the control group, indicating hypofunction of the horizontal canals in MD, whereas a hyperfunction may also occur. No correlation was observed between the results of the two tests for evaluating MD, suggesting that pathological outcomes of one test do not guarantee abnormalities on the other test. For vestibular neuritis, significantly higher CP (96.3%), GA (81.5%), and gain (51.9%) values were detected. A correlation was identified between the two tests for vestibular neuritis, indicating a similar diagnostic efficiency. The higher percentage of pathological GA versus pathological gain values indicates that the asymmetry may be more informative. CONCLUSIONS: The vHIT showed a higher specificity, whereas the caloric test a higher sensitivity. No correlation between the two methods was observed; therefore, the tests appear to provide complementary information.

Long-term follow-up of patients with vestibular neuritis by caloric testing and directional preponderance calculation.

OBJECTIVES: This study focuses on the diagnostic precision of caloric testing in detecting vestibular neuritis (VN). MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this study, 99 patients (36 men, 63 women, mean age: 44.63 years [Formula: see text] 12.08 SD) with superior VN were involved, and 157 participants with a normal functioning vestibular system were also investigated. All patients underwent a complete neurotological examination, including the caloric test with electronystagmography registration. The canal paresis (CP) and directional preponderance (DP) values were analysed. RESULTS: A VN on the right side was diagnosed in 31.3% and on the left side in 68.7%. When the CP parameters between the control and VN patients were contrasted, a statistically significant difference was observed (p < 0.00001*, Mann-Whitney U test), indicating higher values in the latter group. The prediction of VN based on the CP value was successful in 71%, and statistical analysis indicated a significant result [p < 0.0001*; OR: 5.730 (95% CI 3.301-9.948)]. The DP values were also significantly higher in the VN group (p < 0.00001*). The prediction of VN according to the DP value was successful in 69.8%. A significant result was also observed in this case [p < 0.001*; OR: 4.162 (95% CI 2.653-8.017)]. When both CP and DP were considered, a predictive value of 84.8% with a significant outcome [p < 0.0001*; OR: 82.7 (95% CI 28.4-241.03)] was detected. CONCLUSIONS: Including the CP and DP parameters of the caloric test, VN could be detected in around 85%. Therefore, the caloric helps diagnose the disorder, but both parameters must be considered.

Correlation Between Tinnitus Handicap and Depression and Anxiety Scores.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to analyse the correlation between depression, anxiety, and tinnitus handicap in patients with primary tinnitus. METHODS: A total of 102 patients (41 men, 61 women; mean age ± SD: 56.8 ± 11.6 years) were examined. They completed the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and Symptom-Checklist-90-Revised (SCL-90-R). Correlations were analysed using Pearson's and Spearman's tests. Logistic regression analysis was performed. RESULTS: The demographic data suggested a slight female predominance. The THI questionnaires indicated a worsening handicap in 73.5% of the patients, of which the 'mild' category was the most frequent, followed by severe handicaps. According to BDI, 69.6% of individuals fell in the normal category, with mild cases being the most frequent. Of the two psychiatric symptoms, depression (BDI) and tinnitus were strongly correlated (rho= 0.579, P < .0001*). The correlation was also significant according to the SCL-90-R depression questions (rho= 0.523, P < .0001*). Upon comparing the depressive scores and the THI subscores (i.e., functional, emotional, and catastrophic), each showed a significant correlation, with the strongest correlation with functional and emotional scores. The correlation with anxiety was slightly weaker (rho= 0.480, P < .0001*) but also significant. According to the Kaplan-Meier curves and logistic regression, the appearance of depressive symptoms did not significantly influence the appearance of a worsening handicap [P = .428; OR: 1.124 (95% CI: 0.842-1.501)]. However, a worsening handicap significantly influenced the appearance of depressive symptoms [P < .0001*; OR: 1.35 (95% CI: 1.34-4.86)], indicating that tinnitus has a more expressed effect on the appearance of depressive symptoms than reversed. CONCLUSIONS: The correlation between tinnitus handicap and psychiatric comorbidities indicates the importance of psychological factors in tinnitus management. Tinnitus handicap has a more profound effect on depression scores. To avoid the occurrence of comorbidities, tinnitus handicaps must be reduced.

Results of the detailed examinations in patients suffering from tinnitus / A teljes köru kivizsgálás eredményei fülzúgásban szenvedokön

Introduction: Tinnitus is a sound without an external sound stimulus, usually only perceived by the sufferer. Inner ear damage might be found in its background, although many other possible causes exist. Therefore, there is a need for a detailed examination in all cases. Method: In the present investigation, 100 patients (38 men, 62 women; mean age +/- SD: 59 years +/- 11.3) suffering from tinnitus were enrolled. The data and examination results of these patients were analysed in detail. The outcomes of the brain MRI, carotid-vertebral ultrasound, cervical X-ray, pure-tone audiometry, and tinnitometry were analyzed regarding the detailed examinations. Results: In terms of tinnitus laterality, left-sided (34%) and both-sided (53%) were the most frequent ones. The frequency of the examinations was the following: audiometry and tinnitometry (100%), cervical X-ray (80%), cerebral MRI (76%) and carotid-vertebral Doppler ultrasound (21%). Cervical spondylosis/spondyloarthrosis (69 patients), vascular encephalopathy (56 patients) and atherosclerosis of the carotid artery (20 patients) were observed as the most common aberrations. Using the audiometry, normal hearing was detected in 14%, slight sensorineural hearing loss in 25%, moderate sensorineural hearing loss in 44% and severe sensorineural hearing loss in 17%. Tinnitometry detected tinnitus with a mean frequency of 4200 +/- 2200 Hz and intensity of 40 +/- 14.4 dB. Conclusion: The detailed examination of patients suffering from tinnitus is essential in multidisciplinary therapy planning. Possible complications in other organs can also be detected using the carotid-vertebral ultrasound as screening method. Based on the cervical X-ray, the somatosensory tinnitus form can be observed. Pure-tone audiometry and tinnitometry help detect hearing loss combined with tinnitus, pitch, and loudness, which are also essential in therapy planning.

The Predictive Role of Subcutaneous Adipose Tissue in the Pathogenesis of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea.

INTRODUCTION: Our aim was to investigate the applicability of artificial intelligence in predicting obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) and upper airway obstruction using ultrasound (US) measurements of subcutaneous adipose tissues (SAT) in the regions of the neck, chest and abdomen. METHODS: One hundred patients were divided into mild (32), moderately severe-severe (32) OSA and non-OSA (36), according to the results of the polysomnography. These patients were examined using anthropometric measurements and US of SAT and drug-induced sleep endoscopy. RESULTS: Using SAT US and anthropometric parameters, oropharyngeal obstruction could be predicted in 64% and tongue-based obstruction in 72%. In predicting oropharyngeal obstruction, BMI, abdominal and hip circumferences, submental SAT and SAT above the second intercostal space on the left were identified as essential parameters. Furthermore, tongue-based obstruction was predicted mainly by height, SAT measured 2 cm above the umbilicus and submental SAT. The OSA prediction was successful in 97% using the parameters mentioned above. Moreover, other parameters, such as US-based SAT, with SAT measured 2 cm above the umbilicus and both-sided SAT above the second intercostal spaces as the most important ones. DISCUSSION: Based on our results, several categories of OSA can be predicted using artificial intelligence with high precision by using SAT and anthropometric parameters.

The Predictive Role of the Upper-Airway Adipose Tissue in the Pathogenesis of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea.

This study aimed to analyse the thickness of the adipose tissue (AT) around the upper airways with anthropometric parameters in the prediction and pathogenesis of OSA and obstruction of the upper airways using artificial intelligence. One hundred patients were enrolled in this prospective investigation, who were divided into control (non-OSA) and mild, moderately severe, and severe OSA according to polysomnography. All participants underwent drug-induced sleep endoscopy, anthropometric measurements, and neck MRI. The statistical analyses were based on artificial intelligence. The midsagittal SAT, the parapharyngeal fat, and the midsagittal tongue fat were significantly correlated with BMI; however, no correlation with AHI was observed. Upper-airway obstruction was correctly categorised in 80% in the case of the soft palate, including parapharyngeal AT, sex, and neck circumference parameters. Oropharyngeal obstruction was correctly predicted in 77% using BMI, parapharyngeal AT, and abdominal circumferences, while tongue-based obstruction was correctly predicted in 79% using BMI. OSA could be predicted with 99% precision using anthropometric parameters and AT values from the MRI. Age, neck circumference, midsagittal and parapharyngeal tongue fat values, and BMI were the most vital parameters in the prediction. Basic anthropometric parameters and AT values based on MRI are helpful in predicting OSA and obstruction location using artificial intelligence.