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Autism and peripheral hearing loss: a systematic review
Alison N Beers1, Melanie McBoyle2, Emily Kakande2
1Department of Audiology, BC Children's & Women's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology
|December 5, 2013
Summary
This review found no conclusive evidence that children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have a higher risk of peripheral hearing loss. Comprehensive audiological assessments are recommended for early diagnosis of co-existing hearing impairment in ASD cases.
Area of Science:
- Audiology
- Developmental Neuroscience
- Pediatric Medicine
Background:
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition.
- Peripheral hearing loss can impact communication and development.
- The relationship between ASD and peripheral hearing loss requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review literature on the relationship between ASD and peripheral hearing loss.
- To provide recommendations for audiological assessment and auditory habilitation in co-occurring cases.
- To explore auditory hyper-responsiveness in individuals with ASD.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature review of MEDLINE-indexed studies (1948-2011).
- Inclusion criteria focused on ASD, peripheral hearing loss, audiological assessment, and auditory habilitation.
- 22 articles were selected, with an additional 17 identified from reference lists.
Main Results:
- Prevalence of hearing impairment in ASD is debated, with potential diagnostic delays when conditions co-exist.
- Audiological assessment in children with ASD can be challenging, with variable reliability of behavioral thresholds.
- Auditory hyper-responsiveness is observed in some individuals with ASD, influencing intervention strategies.
Conclusions:
- No conclusive evidence links ASD to an increased risk of peripheral hearing loss.
- Complete audiological assessment is crucial for early detection of hearing loss in ASD.
- Objective measures are recommended to ensure reliability of audiological test results.
- Hearing aid and cochlear implant fitting are not contraindicated but require special considerations for individuals with ASD.
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