Type II Collagen-Induced Autoimmune Inner Ear Lesions in Guinea Pigs

Guinea pigs immunized with type II collagen developed histologic changes resembling those observed in patients with sensorineural hearing loss associated with connective tissue diseases. The histologic changes observed in the inner ears of these guinea pigs included spiral ganglion cell degeneration, atrophied organ of Corti, atrophy of stria vascularis, and mild extension of Reissner's membrane. These pathologic changes were accompanied by both humoral and cell-mediated immune responses directed against type II collagen — a collagen found in the subepithelial layer of the endolymphatic duct and spiral ligament. These findings suggest that an immune response directed against type II collagen can induce inner ear lesions.