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[Correlation of diffusion tensor imaging between the cerebral cortex and speech discrimination in presbycusis]
Summary
In elderly individuals with hearing loss (presbycusis), speech discrimination is linked to both peripheral auditory function and central auditory and cognitive pathways. Fractional anisotropy (FA) in the auditory and cognitive cortex impacts this ability.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Audiology
- Gerontology
Background:
- Presbycusis, or age-related hearing loss, affects speech discrimination.
- The integrity of the auditory pathway and cognitive functions are crucial for understanding speech.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the relationship between pure-tone average (PTA), fractional anisotropy (FA) in the auditory and cognitive cortex, and speech discrimination in presbycusis.
- To explore how peripheral auditory function and central neural pathways contribute to speech perception deficits in older adults.
Main Methods:
- Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) was used to measure FA in the inferior colliculus (IC), superior frontal gyrus, and Heschl's gyrus in 25 elderly subjects with presbycusis.
- PTA, speech discrimination, and FA values were correlated with speech discrimination abilities.
Main Results:
- Higher FA values were observed in the left Heschl's gyrus and superior frontal gyrus.
- Both PTA and FA of the superior frontal gyrus negatively correlated with speech discrimination.
- FA of the Heschl's gyrus positively correlated with speech discrimination.
Conclusions:
- Speech discrimination in presbycusis is influenced by peripheral auditory function.
- Central auditory and cognitive functions, as reflected by FA in specific brain regions, also play a significant role in speech discrimination abilities in the elderly.
