[Cochlear function study by registration of otoacoustic emission of different classes in persons exposed to intensive...

To investigate the condition of the acoustic analyzer and to identify early signs of affection of the internal ear receptors in persons exposed to intensive industrial noise, we examined engine-drivers exposed to noise for 1 to 20 and more years. The findings suggest that registration of otoacoustic emission of various classes may hold perspective for obtaining information about the condition of preneural micromechanical elements of the internal ear in hypoacusis of noise origin. This method detects the earliest cochlear involvement when tonic thresholds are low informative for diagnosis and prediction of hearing loss. Further study of the issue by regular audiological monitoring of persons exposed to intensive industrial noise including registration of otoacoustic emission is required.