View source for Autoimmune inner ear disease

'''Autoimmune Inner Ear Disease''' (AIED)

'''Autoimmune Inner Ear Disease''' (AIED), pronounced as /ɔːtoʊˈimjuːn ˈɪnər ɪər dɪˈziːz/, is a rare medical condition characterized by rapid loss of hearing, often in both ears, caused by the body's immune system attacking the inner ear.

==Etymology==
The term "Autoimmune Inner Ear Disease" is derived from the Greek words "auto" meaning self, "immunis" meaning exempt, and the Latin "auris interna" meaning inner ear. The disease is so named because it involves the body's immune system mistakenly attacking its own inner ear structures.

==Symptoms==
The primary symptom of AIED is a rapid loss of hearing. This can occur in one ear initially but often affects both ears. Other symptoms may include [[tinnitus]] (ringing in the ears), [[vertigo]] (a sense of spinning), and imbalance.

==Causes==
The exact cause of AIED is unknown. However, it is believed to be an [[autoimmune disease]], where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own cells and tissues. In the case of AIED, the immune system attacks the inner ear.

==Diagnosis==
Diagnosis of AIED is often challenging due to its rarity and the lack of specific diagnostic tests. It is typically diagnosed based on the patient's symptoms, medical history, and response to immunosuppressive therapy.

==Treatment==
Treatment for AIED typically involves the use of [[corticosteroids]] to suppress the immune system and reduce inflammation in the inner ear. In some cases, other immunosuppressive drugs may be used. If these treatments are ineffective, [[cochlear implantation]] may be considered.

==Related Terms==
* [[Autoimmune disease]]
* [[Tinnitus]]
* [[Vertigo]]
* [[Corticosteroids]]
* [[Cochlear implantation]]

[[Category:Medical Dictionary]]
[[Category:Autoimmune Diseases]]
[[Category:Ear Diseases]]

{{dictionary-stub}}