Cognitive Performance in Chronic Tinnitus Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study Using the RBANS-H

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Audiology
• Cognitive Psychology

Background:

• Tinnitus is often associated with cognitive impairments, including difficulties with concentration and attention.
• A comprehensive assessment of cognitive functioning in tinnitus patients is crucial for understanding the condition's impact.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate cognitive functioning in chronic tinnitus patients using the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status adjusted for Hearing Impaired individuals (RBANS-H).
• To identify specific cognitive deficits associated with tinnitus and its severity.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 28 chronic tinnitus patients and 28 matched controls.
• Participants completed the RBANS-H, assessing memory, visuospatial skills, language, and attention.
• Tinnitus severity was measured using the Tinnitus Functional Index (TFI) and a visual analogue scale (VAS).

Main Results:

• Total RBANS-H scores did not differ between groups.
• Tinnitus patients exhibited significantly lower scores on the language subscale, specifically in semantic fluency.
• Subjective tinnitus loudness (VAS) negatively correlated with performance on the attention subscale.

Conclusions:

• The RBANS-H is effective for assessing cognitive function in tinnitus patients.
• Tinnitus negatively impacts verbal fluency, potentially due to executive control deficits.
• Increased tinnitus loudness is associated with poorer attention performance.