A 7-year-old child develops sudden sensorineural hearing loss 2 weeks after an episode of meningitis. Which organism is most commonly associated with hearing loss as a sequela of bacterial meningitis in children?
- A Streptococcus pneumoniae ✓
- B Neisseria meningitidis
- C Haemophilus influenzae type b
- D Escherichia coli
Correct answer: A. Streptococcus pneumoniae
Explanation
Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus) is the bacterial pathogen most commonly associated with sensorineural hearing loss as a sequela of meningitis, occurring in up to 30 to 50% of affected children. The hearing loss results from labyrinthitis and subsequent cochlear fibrosis and ossification. This is a critical consideration because early cochlear implantation may be needed before ossification occurs.
Reference: Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics, 21st ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.