Osimertinib-induced hearing loss: an uncommon aftereffect of a novel drug—a case report

Abstract

Abstract Background Epidermal growth factor  receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have significantly improved survival outcomes of advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Nonetheless, usage of TKIs is not without adverse effects, as it has been reported to cause irreversible sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). Case presentation We describe a 72-year-old man who experienced hearing loss after taking osimertinib for 6 months. Later, his hearing further declined over a period of 1 year. Hearing rehabilitation with high-powered behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aid has helped to improve his quality of life to some degree. There were no other known causative factors leading to the hearing deterioration. To date, there is no case report on osimertinib-induced SNHL. Conclusion Physicians ought to counsel patients on osimertinib of this rare side effect and monitor for early signs of hearing loss. Treatment protocol should be in place taking into account that they have either failed or likely to fail the first- or second-line treatments and have advanced stage disease.