Ototoxicity

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) in preventing cisplatin-induced ototoxicity in patients receiving cisplatin-based chemotherapy. Cisplatin is a highly effective chemotherapeutic agent but often leads to permanent hearing loss (ototoxicity) as a significant side effect. This study investigates whether the administration of NAC as an otoprotective agent can reduce or prevent the decline in hearing sensitivity, particularly at extended high frequencies, as measured by audiometry and distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAE).

The investigators aim to study the impact of stereotactic radiosurgery, for the treatment of vestibular Schwannoma, on the cochlear, vestibular, gustatory, and facial nerve functions and compare it with a conservatively treated group. The predictive value of radiological tumor characteristics on hearing preservation and vestibular function will be also evaluated. Additionally, the investigators will invite patients with vestibular Schwannoma to fill out questionnaires to assess their quality of life.

A 10 week trial to assess the ability of Tempol to prevent and/or reduce toxicities associated with cisplatin and radiation treatment in head and neck cancer patients. Over the course of the 10 week trial, mucositis, nephrotoxicity, and ototoxicity will be monitored and assessed.