Unilateral Hearing Loss and Single-Sided Deafness in Children: an Update on Diagnosis and Management

Purpose of ReviewThis review highlights our current understanding of the impact of unilateral hearing loss and single-sided deafness in children, offering insight into diagnosis and management.Recent FindingsChildren with unilateral hearing loss develop an aural preference toward their better hearing ear, leading to difficulties with spatial navigation, balance, speech/language skills, and quality of life when compared with typical hearing peers. Cochlear nerve aplasia and cytomegalovirus are among the most common etiologies for unilateral hearing loss, which has important implications for treatment. Hearing rehabilitation relies upon early correction of hearing loss with an appropriate auditory prosthesis. In children with single-sided deafness, cochlear implants are the only intervention that potentially offers restoration of bilateral hearing, and studies continue to refine candidacy protocols.SummaryUnilateral hearing loss has important consequences for children. Recent studies emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and investigate ways to appropriately restore bilateral hearing in these children.