Ototoxic
Monitoring

Ototoxic “Ear Poison”

Various medications can cause damage to a person’s hearing, including those used to fight cancer and other life-threatening diseases. These medications are called “ototoxic,” or ear poison, and are associated with a high incidence of hearing loss.

Capital Institute of Hearing & Balance offers a series of hearing tests performed for people who are undergoing treatments which can damage the inner ear. By establishing a comprehensive baseline prior to the start of treatment, and continuing with abbreviated tests throughout treatment, hearing loss can be detected before a patient becomes aware of shifts in hearing.

When a change is confirmed, the patient and their medical team can then make informed decisions in attempts to minimize damage. If a modification to the treatment plan is not feasible, management of the hearing loss is then pursued to ensure the patient is able to maintain effective communication and their quality of life.