ABSTRACT
Although a great deal of attention has been paid to hereditary diseases associated with hearing loss, relatively little emphasis has been placed on recognizing the many nonhereditary diseases that are linked with deafness. Consequently, even some otolaryngologists may overlook important diagnostic information. Awareness of these illnesses is essential in distinguishing them from the many hereditary conditions they may mimic. Moreover, this knowledge often allows the physician to make important systemic diagnoses or to diagnose hearing loss early.
