Screening methods: current status

Two technologies are currently used to screen newborn infants for hearing, auditory brainstem response (ABR), and otoacoustic emissions (OAEs). Each technology is based on detecting the infant's physiologic response to auditory stimulation. ABR is a short-latency auditory evoked response originating from eighth nerve and brainstem auditory pathway structures and detected by scalp surface electrodes. OAEs are auditory signals generated by cochlear outer hair cells in response to acoustic stimulation and detected by a miniature microphone coupled to the infant's ear. Although each technique requires specific sound generation and response recording technologies, advances in computerized stimulus delivery and response detection algorithms allow these tests to be performed by trained technicians or volunteers under the supervision of an audiologist. Results of test performance, and the advantages and disadvantages of each technique are described.