Assessment of Central Auditory Processing in Children Using a Novel Tablet-Based Platform: Application for Low- and...

Area of Science:

• Auditory neuroscience
• Pediatric audiology
• Global health technology

Background:

• Central auditory processing (CAP) disorders affect children's learning and communication.
• Access to specialized audiological services is limited in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
• Portable, technology-based solutions are needed to overcome geographical and resource barriers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a tablet-based CAP test system administered by community health workers in diverse settings.
• To compare CAP test results with established normative data.
• To identify subject-specific factors influencing CAP test outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 245 children and adolescents (ages 6-18) in community settings.
• Utilized a portable, tablet-based system with native language training videos.
• Administered tests including Pure-tone Average (PTA), Gap Detection Threshold (GDT), Hearing in Noise Test (HINT), Dichotic Digits Test (DDT), and Frequency Pattern Recognition (FPR).

Main Results:

• The GDT, HINT, and DDT yielded results comparable to published norms.
• Masking Level Difference (MLD) and FPR results showed significant differences from normative values.
• DDT performance was significantly influenced by age and PTA, unlike most other CAP tests.

Conclusions:

• Tablet-based CAP testing is feasible and effective in remote LMIC settings without audiologists.
• The DDT shows potential as a sensitive measure in pediatric populations, correlating with age and hearing.
• Further research is needed to understand the variability in FPR test results.