A comparison of AP and ABR tuning curves in the guinea pig

AP and ABR tuning curves were measured using a forward masking paradigm in guinea pigs with chronically implanted electrodes. Measurements were made before exposure to wide-band noise and at several intervals after exposure. The noise exposure was sufficient to produce temporary threshold shifts up to 60 dB lasting several days. Results showed similar reductions in Q10, tip-to-tail ratio and slope of simultaneously recorded AP and ABR tuning curves as a function of threshold shift following noise exposure. Tuning curves based on changes in response latency are presented as well as tuning curves based on changes in response amplitude. AP and ABR latency tuning curves showed similar form and changes with hearing loss as amplitude tuning curves. The similarities between AP and ABR tuning characteristics provide evidence that the ABR is sensitive enough to peripheral changes to be useful as a tool to study auditory frequency selectivity. The similarities between amplitude and latency tuning characteristics suggest that information regarding frequency selectivity of the auditory system can be obtained using response latency as well as response amplitude.