Which condition is an example of sensorineural hearing loss?

Presbycusis is a condition that illustrates sensorineural hearing loss, which occurs due to damage to the inner ear structures or the auditory nerve. This type of hearing loss is commonly associated with aging, and it results in a gradual decline in the ability to hear high-frequency sounds and understand speech, especially in noisy environments.

Over time, changes in the cochlea, including hair cell degeneration and loss of nerve fibers, contribute to this condition. The impact of presbycusis can be significant in daily life as it affects communication and social interaction, making it a prevalent concern in geriatric medicine and primary care.

In contrast, perforation of the tympanic membrane, cholesteatoma, and otosclerosis are associated with conductive hearing loss, which involves problems in transmitting sound waves through the outer or middle ear. Understanding this distinction helps in accurately diagnosing and treating various forms of hearing impairment.