Sensorineural hearing loss of noise in members of aviation club of Larissa (Greece).

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the clinical and audiometric characteristics of noise by an one-engine Cessna (1300-1750 RPM), by ultra light aircrafts and different types of air modeling products which induce hearing loss in air modeling members of Aviation club of Larissa in Greece. MATERIAL-METHODS: During the past 2 years members in the aviation club were referred for clinical and audiological examination in the ENT Department of hearing and speech and underwent a personal interview with a specific questionnaire. No one of the examined members was using individual protection systems during aviation activities. RESULTS: From all members examined, a 30% had an audiogram with a slope in high frequencies, not attributed to presbyacousis and had experienced at least one symptom associated with hearing disturbance. CONCLUSIONS: Air modeling members in aviation club that are exposed to noise during aviation activities without protection are at high risk of noise induced hearing loss.

Tolosa-Hunt syndrome misdiagnosed as sinusitis complication.

OBJECTIVE: Tolosa-Hunt syndrome is a rare condition of painful ophthalmoplegia combined with ipsilateral ocular motor nerve palsies, caused by non-specific granulomatous inflammation in the cavernous sinus, superior orbital fissure or orbit. A case of Tolosa-Hunt syndrome misdiagnosed as sinusitis orbital complication is reported. CASE REPORT: A patient suffering from left periorbital pain, upper eyelid oedema and ptosis, and horizontal diplopia, diagnosed as sinusitis orbital complication, was referred to our department. Clinical evaluation revealed only a left VIth nerve paresis. Haematological studies, cerebrospinal fluid tests and computed tomography scanning were negative. A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan showed enhancement of the left cavernous sinus. Corticosteroid therapy was commenced, and within three days all symptoms disappeared. A diagnosis of Tolosa-Hunt syndrome was made. Follow-up MRI studies were normal. CONCLUSION: Tolosa-Hunt syndrome, although rare, is a nosological entity that otolaryngologists must bear in mind. Magnetic resonance imaging studies are essential in the diagnosis and follow up of these patients, in order to avoid a mistaken Tolosa-Hunt syndrome diagnosis.