Test Directory

Antibodies to inner ear antigen (68kDa) occur in approximately 70% of patients with autoimmune hearing loss. The antibody tests to this 68kDa antigen parallel with disease activity. In addition, a majority of patients positive for antibodies to 68kDa are responsive to corticosteroid treatment.

Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL), commonly referred to as nerve deafness, may be caused by genetic factors, acquired factors (i.e. infections) or can be immune mediated. In the majority of cases, no cause of SNHL is apparent. Such cases are referred to as idiopathic SNHL. A subgroup of idiopathic SNHL cases is treatable with immunosuppressive therapy. The laboratory studies used to identify these cases should include serum antibody tests to 68kD (hsp-70) inner ear antigen. 22% of patients with bilateral rapidly progressive SNHL have antibodies that react with the 68kD antigen. 68kD (hsp-70) antibodies also occur in approximately 60% of patients with bilateral Meniere's disease, 35% of patients with unilateral Meniere's disease and 37% of patients with contralateral delayed endolymphatic hydrops. In situations where corticosteroids are contra-indicated, methotrexate or cytoxan treatment may be prescribed

Specimen Type: Serum

Preferred Collection Container: Red Top, Plain

Alternate Collection Container: Gold Top, Serum Separator

Desired Specimen Volume: 3 mL

1. Collect a red top, plain tube via venipuncture.

1. Separate serum from cells.
2. Transfer 3 mL of serum to a clear aliquot tube (screw cap).

Transport to the laboratory frozen.

See patient report.

• 68 KD (hsp-70) Antibodies by Line Blot
• Heat Shock Protein 70
• Heat Shock Protein
• Anti-cochlear Ab