The reversible tinnitus and cochleopathy followed first-dose AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccination

Tseng, Ping-Tao; Chen, Tien-Yu; Sun, Yu-Shan; Chen, Yen-Wen; Chen, Jiann-Jy

The current case was the first report demonstrating a single case presenting with sudden-onset tinnitus and cochleopathy after his first dosage of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine. Audiometry revealed an abnormally high short increment sensitivity index. His tinnitus/cochleopathy was reversible and recoverable under conservative steroid management. The abnormality of the high short increment sensitivity index returned to the normal range after steroid management. This case report aimed to increase the cautionary awareness of clinicians concerning the potential adverse events of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine and the new onset of tinnitus/cochleopathy. In addition, immediate treatment is recommended for managing these patients after the onset of tinnitus/cochleopathy. Furthermore, due to the fact that the adverse event of new-onset tinnitus was reversible and recoverable, we still strongly recommend the continuation of the administration of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine, based on its merits and demerits.