Abstract
The A1555G and 961delT mutations in the mitochondrial 12S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene were found in patients with hearing loss after aminoglycoside administration. From among 9 patients with streptomycin-induced hearing loss, the 961delT mutation was found in one (11%) and the A1555G mutation in 6 (67%). Pure-tone audiograms showed moderate symmetrical sensorineural hearing loss in a patient bearing the 961delT, and the other audiologic findings suggested cochlear impairment. Four patients with A1555G mutation, 2 of whom had the cochlear implant had profound hearing loss. Clinical consideration of family histories and molecular screening at the 1555 and the 961 positions was thought to reduce the frequency of tragic irreversible deafness due to aminoglycosides. As buccal scrapes and urinary sediments are obtained non-invasively, these methods of checking for the above mentioned mutations are suitable for children.
