ABSTRACT

Except where resulting from use of drugs producing reversible deafness (aspirin, quinine and sometimes frusemide), the hearing loss resulting from ototoxicity is permanent. If both organs of balance are destroyed there will be persisting imbalance, most noticeable when attempting to walk on uneven surfaces in the dark (when the eyes and the joint receptors cannot provide compensating information to the brain). Hearing losses may require rehabilitation with a hearing aid. Total deafness is fortunately rare.