The Assessment of Auditory Function in High-Risk Neonates and Infants Using Brainstem-Evoked Response Audiometry...

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Audiology
• Neonatal Care
• Developmental Pediatrics

Background:

• Hearing impairment in neonates and infants can significantly impact language, cognitive, and social development.
• Early detection is critical for timely intervention and improved long-term outcomes.
• High-risk neonates are particularly susceptible due to factors like prematurity and low birth weight.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the prevalence of hearing impairment in high-risk neonates and infants.
• To identify key risk factors associated with hearing loss in this population.
• To underscore the importance of early auditory screening using Brainstem-evoked response audiometry (BERA).

Main Methods:

• A prospective hospital-based study was conducted in the Otorhinolaryngology department.
• 70 high-risk neonates and infants were enrolled between October 2022 and March 2024.
• Brainstem-evoked response audiometry (BERA) was used for auditory assessment.

Main Results:

• Prematurity was the most prevalent risk factor for hearing impairment.
• Low birth weight (43%), perinatal asphyxia, hyperbilirubinemia, and neonatal sepsis were also significant factors.
• 50% of infants had normal hearing; 23% had mild, and 14% had moderate hearing loss.

Conclusions:

• Early and routine auditory screening with BERA is vital for high-risk neonates and infants.
• Identifying risk factors like prematurity, low birth weight, and hyperbilirubinemia aids in early diagnosis.
• Prompt intervention, including cochlear implants for profound sensorineural hearing loss, is crucial for language development.