[Chronic tinnitus: which kind of patients benefit from an outpatient psychotherapy?]

Abstract

Background: Psychotherapy proved to be effective in the treatment of chronic tinnitus sufferers. We investigated, which patient and symptom characteristics predicted the treatment outcome.

Patients and methods: 95 patients underwent a CBT based treatment including biofeedback elements. Predictors were identified by the use of regression analysis. Outcome was defined as changes in tinnitus annoyance, intensity, duration, the number of responder and the end-state-functioning.

Results: More than 80% of the participants significantly improved. Positive predictors found in the analysis were an active and non-sceptical treatment expectancy. If patients suffered from depressive disorder, outcome was slightly reduced.

Conclusion: Most tinnitus patients benefit from outpatient psychotherapy. Positive treatment expectancy should be increased at the beginning of the treatment. Patients who are sceptical should be informed about potential positive treatment results. In the case of affective disorder, additional treatments should be considered.