Parameters for Applying the Brainstem Auditory Evoked Potential with Speech Stimulus: Systematic Review.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Audiology
• Speech-Language Pathology

Background:

• Increasing use of Brainstem Auditory Evoked Potential (BAEP) with speech stimulus in Brazil.
• Observed divergences in testing methodologies necessitate a review of current parameters.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically analyze the parameters employed in Brainstem Auditory Evoked Potential studies using speech stimuli.
• To identify predominant methodologies for BAEP speech testing.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search of electronic databases (June-July 2016) using keywords related to auditory evoked potentials and speech.
• Inclusion criteria: Portuguese, English, or Spanish articles detailing testing parameters and sample descriptions.
• Analysis of 43 selected articles from 2,384 initial results.

Main Results:

• Predominant parameters identified: syllable /da/ stimulation, monaural presentation (right ear favored), 80 dB SPL intensity, vertical electrode placement, in-ear headphones.
• Commonly used conditions: seated, awake, distracted patient; alternating polarity; speech synthesizer software; presentation rate of 10.9/s; sampling rate of 20 kHz.

Conclusions:

• The systematic review addresses a relatively recent but significant theme in audiology.
• Results provide valuable insights for standardizing clinical practice and advising clinicians on prevalent BAEP speech testing procedures.