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[Hearing disorders in children with Down's syndrome]
A Hildmann1, H Hildmann, A Kessler
1Univ. Hals-Nasen-Ohren-Klinik der Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Germany.
Insights
Children with Down syndrome frequently experience hearing loss, with conductive hearing loss being most common. Early diagnosis and intervention, including hearing aids, are crucial for their development and communication.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Audiology
- Genetics
Context:
- Hearing disorders are common in children with Down syndrome.
- This study examined hearing deficiencies in 102 children with Down syndrome at an audiology outpatient unit.
- A high number of very young children (under two years) with hearing disorders were identified.
Purpose:
- To assess the prevalence and types of hearing disorders in children with Down syndrome.
- To emphasize the importance of early detection and management of hearing loss in this population.
Summary:
- 57 out of 102 children with Down syndrome presented with hearing deficiencies.
- Conductive hearing loss was the most prevalent type (88%), followed by combined (7%) and sensorineural (5%).
- 32 patients under two years of age had a hearing disorder, highlighting the need for early screening.
Impact:
- Early diagnosis and timely treatment (conservative, surgical, or hearing aids) are vital for the rehabilitation and communication development of children with Down syndrome.
- Regular audiological follow-up is necessary, even if initial reactions appear normal.
- Prompt intervention can significantly improve developmental outcomes.
Abstract:
Among 4947 children in an outpatients unit for hearing disorders 102 children with Down's syndrome were seen and checked for hearing disorders. 57 had hearing deficiencies, 50 (88 %) conductive hearing loss, 4 (7 %) combined and 3 (5 %) a sensory neural hearing loss. Compared to other publications the number of very young children was very high. 32 patients under two years of age had a hearing disorder. The results underline the necessity of early diagnosis and follow up also in children with normal reactions during the first presentation. Early diagnosis enables early treatment, conservative, surgical or fitting with hearing aids, especially important in the rehabilitation of these children. Hearing aids may be given temporarily imploring communication during the development of the child.