Research Article - The International Tinnitus Journal (2025) Volume 29, Issue 1

Investigating the Role of Stochastic Resonance in Tinnitus Development Among Patients with Axonal Polyneuropathy

Tinnitus is a prevalent auditory disorder characterized by the perception of sound without an external source, often significantly impacting quality of life. The Stochastic Resonance (SR) hypothesis suggests that tinnitus arises as a compensatory mechanism where the auditory system amplifies internal neural noise to enhance signal detection in response to hearing loss. This study explores the potential link between axonal loss in peripheral nerves and the development of tinnitus through SR in patients with axonal polyneuropathy. We recruited 82 patients exhibiting clinical symptoms of distal symmetric sensory or sensorimotor polyneuropathy. Electrophysiological assessments, including nerve conduction studies and electromyography, were performed, and the occurrence of tinnitus was evaluated using the Tinnitus Severity Index and Visual Analog Scale. Logistic regression analysis revealed that decreased amplitudes of the Compound Motor Action Potential (CMAP) of the tibial and peroneal nerves are significantly associated with a higher likelihood of experiencing tinnitus (p = 0.012 and p = 0.043, respectively). Additionally, increased Motor Conduction Velocity (MCV) of the peroneal nerve was linked to the presence of tinnitus (p = 0.028). These findings support the hypothesis that axonal loss in peripheral nerves correlates with axonal loss in the auditory nerve, potentially leading to tinnitus through the mechanism of stochastic resonance. Modulation of ion channel function may be a compensatory response to axonal loss, contributing to increased neural noise and the perception of tinnitus. Our study enhances the understanding of the pathophysiology of tinnitus in patients with axonal polyneuropathy and suggests potential targets for future therapeutic interventions. Further research is necessary to validate these conclusions and to investigate the mechanisms by which ion channel modulation affects both peripheral and central nervous systems. Author(s):

Dominika Hojná, Pavel Kunc, OldÃ…?ich Vyšata

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