Audiologic evaluation of hearing-impaired infants and children

Area of Science:

• Audiology
• Pediatric audiology
• Hearing science

Background:

• Universal hearing screening programs have increased the frequency of audiologic assessments in infants and young children.
• Accurate hearing assessment in infants is critical for timely intervention.
• Technological advancements like auditory brainstem response (ABR) and otoacoustic emissions (OAE) have improved diagnostic capabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the importance of comprehensive audiologic assessment in hearing-impaired infants.
• To emphasize the need for detailed frequency and ear-specific information before hearing aid selection.
• To discuss the battery of tests required for accurate diagnosis.

Main Methods:

• Review of current audiologic testing protocols for infants.
• Discussion of physiologic measures, including auditory brainstem response (ABR) and otoacoustic emissions (OAE).
• Consideration of behavioral assessment techniques relevant to young children.

Main Results:

• The advent of ABR and OAE testing has enhanced the ability to assess hearing in infants.
• Comprehensive testing provides essential frequency and ear-specific data.
• Effective hearing amplification selection relies on thorough pre-amplification assessment.

Conclusions:

• A thorough audiologic evaluation is paramount for hearing-impaired infants.
• Diagnostic centers must be proficient in both physiologic and behavioral testing methods.
• Early and accurate assessment leads to better outcomes with hearing amplification.