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Infant Auditory Processing and Event-related Brain Oscillations
Published on: July 1, 2015
[Normative parameter characterization for the auditory brainstem response of the normal newborn]
E Echeverría1, L González, M Fischer
1Depto de Fisiología y Biofísica, Facultad de Medicina Universidad de Chile, Santiago.
Revista Medica De Chile
|April 1, 1992
Summary
This study on newborn auditory brainstem response found that 85% of infants had hearing thresholds below 40 dBnHL. A screening level of 30-40 dBnHL is suggested for detecting hearing loss in newborns.
Area of Science:
- Audiology
- Neuroscience
- Pediatrics
Context:
- Newborn hearing screening is crucial for early detection of auditory impairments.
- Understanding auditory brainstem response (ABR) characteristics in neonates is essential for accurate diagnosis.
- Variability in ABR thresholds necessitates refined screening protocols.
Purpose:
- To investigate auditory brainstem response (ABR) thresholds in a cohort of 119 normal newborns.
- To determine normative ABR latencies for waves I, III, and V.
- To evaluate the efficacy of different hearing loss screening levels in newborns.
Summary:
- Auditory brainstem response (ABR) was assessed in 119 newborns using click stimuli at varying intensities (20-60 dBnHL).
- Mean latencies for waves I, III, and V were 2.7±0.39, 5.4±0.44, and 7.7±0.48 ms, respectively.
- 85% of newborns exhibited ABR thresholds <40 dBnHL, with 54% <20 dBnHL and 15% between 40-60 dBnHL, suggesting potential conductive loss in the latter group.
Impact:
- Findings support the use of ABR for identifying hearing impairments in newborns.
- The study suggests an optimal screening range of 30-40 dBnHL for newborn hearing loss detection.
- Results contribute to refining audiological assessment protocols for high-risk infant populations.
