• Bao-Chen Zhu, Wen-Hua Yang, Mao Huang, Jin-Gui Wang, Yan Liang, Zhen-Zhen Lei, Sha-Sha Zhang, Ying Wang, Xiao-di Sun, Ying Gong, Chun-Miao Xue, and Guo-Dong Hua.
• Department of Pharmacy, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.
• Medicine (Baltimore). 2023 Nov 10; 102 (45): e36010e36010.

RationaleGefitinib is a potent and selective orally active growth factor receptor (EGFR)-tyrosine kinase inhibitor that is commonly used to treat advanced non-small cell lung cancer patients with activating EGFR mutations. Hearing impairment with gefitinib was sparsely reported. In this report, we describe a case of sensorineural deafness associated with the administration of gefitinib, with a Naranjo score of 7.Patient ConcernsAn 81-year-old female was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma with bone metastasis and an EGFR-activating mutation. The patient was prescribed gefitinib tablets at a daily dose of 250 mg for lung adenocarcinoma treatment. However, the patient experienced moderate to severe bilateral sensorineural deafness, primarily in her right ear, after taking gefitinib. Following the cessation of gefitinib administration, the patient exhibited partial restoration of auditory function. Upon resuming the medication, she experienced a worsening of deafness.DiagnosesThe otoscopic audiogram and hearing test indicated moderate to severe bilateral sensorineural deafness.InterventionsThe otolaryngologist recommended bilateral hearing aids to enhance hearing function.OutcomesThroughout our follow-up period, the patient did not receive a hearing aid implant.LessonsThis article first reported the ototoxicity caused by gefitinib. While rare, our report highlights that gefitinib-induced sensorineural deafness is possible and its mechanisms are still unclear. This adverse reaction should be monitored closely during clinical application of gefitinib to improve patient outcomes.Copyright © 2023 the Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.

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