Is there a relationship between melanocytes and sensorineural hearing loss? clinical evaluation of fifthy-one alopecia areata patients

Abstract

Melanocytes are located in both the cochlea and vestibular organ of the inner ear. They are present in the hearing organ, in the intermediate layer of stria vascularis in the cochlea.

The most important task of the stria vascularis is to provide the endolymph production necessary for normal hearing levels, especially high K⁺ concentration, and to protect the positive endocochlear potential.

Specifically, intermediate layer melanocytes express ionic channels, such as inwardly rectifying K+ channels and voltage-dependent outwardly rectifying K+.

The underlying mechanisms of the damage to melanocytes in the skin can also affect other organs, including inner ear.

Coexistence of cochlear dysfunction in alopecia areata patients suggest that presumed autoimmunity against follicular melanocytes in AA might also effect the melanocytes in the inner ear. This could strengthen the relationship between sensorineural hearing loss and autoimmunity.

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