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Published on: January 23, 2017
[Age influence in otoacoustic emissions for hearing loss screening in infants]
P Torrico1, C Gómez, J López-Ríos
1Servicio de Otorrinolaringología, Hospital D. Benito-Villanueva (Don Benito), Badajoz. med003858@saludalia.com
Insights
The best time for newborn hearing screening using otoacoustic emissions (OAEs) is after 48 hours but before hospital discharge. Repeat testing for OAEs should occur at least six days after the initial failed test.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal audiology
- Otoacoustic emissions testing
- Hearing screening protocols
Context:
- Newborn hearing loss affects 7 in 1,000 infants.
- Early detection is crucial for timely intervention.
- Otoacoustic emissions (OAEs) are a key screening tool.
Purpose:
- Determine optimal timing for initial OAE screening in newborns.
- Establish guidelines for repeat OAE testing after a failed screening.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of OAE screening based on age at testing.
Summary:
- A study of 2,567 newborns found OAE detection trends linearly in the first month.
- Screening is most effective between 48 hours and hospital discharge.
- A six-day interval is recommended between failed and repeat OAE tests.
Impact:
- Optimizes newborn hearing screening protocols for improved detection rates.
- Ensures timely identification of hearing loss in newborns.
- Provides evidence-based recommendations for audiological practices in neonatal care.
Objective:
To determine the most favorable age for detection of otoacoustic emissions in newborns and for repeated testing.
Methods:
Observational, retrospective, descriptive study in 2,567 newborns.
Results:
The incidence of any degree of hearing loss was 7 per thousand newborns. It was proportionately higher in the group that did not have otologic risk factors The distribution of otoacoustic emissions by age groups followed a significant linear trend in the first month of life. The time lapse to obtain a positive result on the second otoacoustic emission test was 6 days from the first one.
Conclusions:
Otoacoustic emission screening should be performed in all newborns as late as possible after birth (from the first 48 hours after birth), but before hospital discharge for the test to be effective and efficient. A repeat test, if required, must be performed at least six days after failing the first one.
