ABSTRACT
When diagnosing and evaluating noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) for purposes of compensation, the otolaryngologist often finds himself caught between industry and unions, between management and workers. In several controversial areas, conflicting evidence is available. The following extensive review of the literature was undertaken to provide an overview of research and clarify some of the issues in this ongoing debate. The author's aim is to rule out unreliable or biased information and direct the otolaryngologist toward credible studies that can help him make a sound decision.
Subject(s)
Hearing Loss, Noise-Induced/etiology , Hearing Loss, Noise-Induced/diagnosis , Hearing Loss, Noise-Induced/physiopathology , Humans , Noise, Occupational/adverse effects , Occupational Exposure/adverse effects , Tinnitus/diagnosis , Tinnitus/etiology , Tinnitus/physiopathologyABSTRACT
A case is presented in which a sphenoid sinus mucocele was indicated by rapidly progressive blindness in the left eye. Recognition and extension of the mucocele was made possible with a computerized tomographic (CT) scan and tomograms, which outlined its boundaries and the involvement of the maxillary sinus, the ethmoid, and the left orbit. Immediate decompression and marsupialization of the cyst through the left maxillary sinus, using the Caldwell-Luc approach, gave excellent results. Immediate improvement of vision was noted and almost complete return of vision occured within six weeks.
