We report the case of a 69-year-old man with major depressive disorder
and occupational tinnitus; both problems were refractory to several d
ifferent treatment modalities, but were successfully treated with elec
troconvulsive therapy (ECT). The tinnitus was present for 15-20 years,
but had worsened during the 3 years before treatment, causing him sig
nificant distress. Extensive organic workup did not identify a treatab
le etiology for his symptoms. To date, he has been hospitalized four t
imes due to depressive symptoms associated with tinnitus. He has recei
ved ECT each time, and has responded well on each occasion.