1st April 2022

A 60-year-old woman presents with hearing loss

A 60-year-old woman presents with hearing loss. She describes a gradual onset loss of hearing in her right ear over the past several months, and over the past few weeks has had some ringing in that ear too. On examination of the external ear and ear canal, there are no obvious abnormalities. An audiogram is done, which demonstrates high-frequency sensorineural right-sided hearing loss. An MRI scan is then performed, which confirms the suspected diagnosis. 

Which cranial nerve is most likely to have been affected in this case?

Select the SINGLE most likely option from the list below. Select ONE option only.