Introduction

Permanent hearing loss affects 10-20% of children with bacterial meningitis. The situation is less clear in viral meningitis. Enterovirus(EV) infection is the commonest cause of viral meningitis. We studied hearing outcome in children following non-polio enteroviral meningitis (EVM). Our earlier study (2008-2011) had revealed no hearing loss in 103 children . We extended the study toobtain additional information . This report describes hearing outcome in an expanded cohort of children with EVM

Methods

We conducted a retrospective records review of children with a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) EV polymerase chain reaction ( PCR) diagnosis of EVM ,managed at the KK Women's & Children's Hospital over 2008-2015. Children with concomitant bacterial infections, a prior history of hearing impairment or immunodeficiencies were excluded. A clinical review together with hearing screen utilizing otoacoustic emissions OAE was performed at 8-10 weeks. Children who failed OAE or had caregiver concerns about hearing or language underwent formal audiology evaluation.

Results

Total cohort comprised 179 children (Male:female 100:79) , age range 3 days -16 years, 158 younger than 90 days, 11 preterm . None had hyperbilirubinemia; one hundred and fifity-eight had received Gentamycin for  2 days. Twenty-four ( 13.4%) failed OAE tseting. Subsequent detailed audiology evaluation in 22  revealed no hearing loss . Two children who did not attend formal audiology testing were assessed to have normal hearing on clinical followup.

Conclusions

PCR CSF assay has enabled rapid EVM diagnosis . Hearing outcome is good. Routine objective hearing testing  may not be indicated following uncomplicated EVM in children.