Fabry disease is an X-linked inherited disorder of glycosphingolipid metabolism due to the deficient activity of a lysosomal enzyme, alpha-galactosidase A. The resultant systemic accumulation of sphingolipids can lead to progressive and sudden hearing loss alongside renal, cardiac and cerebrovascular complications. Although replacement therapy seems to be beneficial for cochlear function, few data are available regarding treatment of sudden hearing loss. This case report describes the course of a unilateral sudden hearing loss in a young (15-year-old) male patient and its improvement following hyperbaric oxygen treatment.
2008 S. Karger AG, Basel