Idiopathic Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss(ISSNHL) is a an irritating problem that
continues to pose a diagnostic and therapeutic enigma for the otologist. It is most
commonly defined as sensorineural hearing loss of 30dB or greater over at least three
contiguous audiometric frequencies occurring within a 72-hr period. It is not one of the
more common causes of HL, disproportionate interest in ISSNHL exists most likely
because it is one of the few reversible (sensorineural) hearing losses encountered by
clinicians. Intratympanic steroid injection is increasingly used in the management of
ISSNHL as it offers the potential for directed therapy of a high concentration to the inner
ear with avoidance of systemic side effects. It also can improve hearing function in
patients with ISSNHL after the failure of systemic steroid treatment.