Evaluation of the Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approach to Tinnitus in the Practice of Portuguese Otolaryngologists
Year: 2025
Type: preprint
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Tinnitus is commonly described as a perception of sound in the absence of any external stimulus[1](#ref-0001). It is a significant public health concern. There remains considerable variation in care among healthcare professionals. Objectives : To evaluate the standard of care of patients with tinnitus in Portugal. Design: We conducted an online survey through the Portuguese Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Society (SPORL) mailing list, gathering 75 responses between August and October 2024. Results: Portuguese otolaryngologists typically evaluate 6-10 tinnitus patients per week, primarily with cardiovascular and psychiatric comorbidities, in 20–30-minute consultations at centers without a specialized tinnitus appointment. Physical and audiometric examinations are prioritized, with MRI strongly recommended for unilateral or pulsatile tinnitus. No scoring system is used to assess the impact of tinnitus on quality of life. The establishment of multidisciplinary tinnitus clinics was deemed a priority. There was broad dissatisfaction about the prescription options and the present state of tinnitus research. Conclusion : Efforts should be made to standardize diagnostic/therapeutic approaches and quantify the daily impact of tinnitus. Better outcomes could be achieved through the adoption of multidisciplinary consultations and investment in research and development of treatments for this symptom.
Institution: Unidade Local de Saúde da Região de Aveiro
Language: English
Subfield: Sensory Systems
Field: Neuroscience
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
OpenAlex ID: W7134129593
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