Can MRI detect hearing loss in people with MS?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have multiple sclerosis (MS) and am currently being treated with Tysabri. I recently had an MRI, and a few findings came up that my MS provider didn’t seem too concerned about. But I wanted a second opinion.

There’s a new area of signal change in the right temporal lobe, near the third ventricle, compared to my earlier scans.
There are signs of inflammation in my ethmoid and maxillary sinuses, along with a large polyp or retention cyst in the maxillary sinuses.

Do any of these findings need more follow-up? Could any of them explain the hearing loss I’ve been experiencing?

Thanks for your help.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

I'd just like a little more information to help guide you better:

When were you diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS), and how long have you been receiving Tysabri (Natalizumab)?
When did your hearing loss begin? Was the MRI done because of that symptom, or was it part of your regular MS monitoring?

From your MRI, it seems there's only one small new plaque, which can happen from time to time in MS. This is expected since MS involves changes over time and across different areas of the brain. Importantly, none of the plaques are active, which is reassuring.

The inflammation and the retention cyst or polyp found in your maxillary sinuses are usually harmless and often seen by chance during brain imaging. They're typically not related to MS. Unless you're having sinus symptoms like headaches, facial pain, or frequent infections, there's no need to worry, but if you are, a consultation with a maxillofacial surgeon may help.

That said, hearing loss is considered an uncommon symptom in MS, so it's a good idea to see an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist to explore other possible causes.

Let me know if you have more details or additional questions!

I hope this helps.

Kindly revert so I can assist you further.

Thank you.