Model for Hearing Loss Identification in Belarus

Objective: 1) To analyze 35delG mutation rates in the large group of children with sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL); 2) To optimize the diagnosis of SNHL in children.Method: A total of 392 children with SNHL from moderate-to-profound hearing loss were examined. A screening for 35delG, pure tone audiometry, and family interviews were performed. A comparative analysis of hearing loss degree and risk factors in 3 groups of children, including 35delG heterozygous, 35delG homozygous, and without this mutation was performed.Results: Among children with SNHL, 45% are homozygous and 15% are heterozygous for 35delG GJB2. The frequency rate of perinatal pathology in the group of 35delG absence patients is significantly higher (P value = .03) than in groups of 35delG homozygous and 35delG heterozygous. Our study shows a positive family history is present in 45% of cases with 35delG homozygous children, while for the group without this mutation the deafness of relatives is only 15%. On comparison of 35delG homozygou...