RESUMEN
The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between progressive sensorineural hearing loss and normal tension glaucoma. This prospective study was conducted in South Shouna Hospital [Ministry of Health-Jordan] during the period between 2003 - 2005. 26 patients attending an ophthalmology clinic and diagnosed to have normal tension glaucoma were referred to the ENT clinic. Ophthalmologic examination included Snellen's visual acuity testing, anterior segment examination via slit lamp, and posterior segment examination after mydriasis via indirect ophthalmoscope, Goldmann's applanation tonometry to measure intraocular pressure, and visual field assessment via Goldmann's perimeter. In the ENT clinic, audiograms, stapedial thresholds and otoacoustic emissions were obtained. Serological testing of antiphospholipids antibodies were done for all patients. The results were compared with two control groups: one had other types of glaucoma, and the other was normal people. 18 normal tension glaucoma patients [75%] had sensorineural hearing loss. Elevated antiphospholipid antibody concentrations were more frequent in patients with normal tension glaucoma and hearing loss compared with normal tension glaucoma patients with normacusis. There was no association between primary open angle glaucoma, hearing loss and antiphospholipid antibody. Pseudoexfoliation was associated with hearing loss but not with antiphospholipid antibodies. The association between hearing loss, normal tension glaucoma and antiphospholipid antibody indicates that they are part of autoimmune systemic process