Clinical status of evoked response audiometry

In the past decade there has been a widespread renewal of interest in the clinical utilization of electroencephalic responses evoked by auditory stimulation. In particular, there has been considerable research conducted on the brain stem response, the frequency following response, and the middle latency response. An overview discussion of some of the latest findings from recent and ongoing investigations is presented. Discussion is centered initially on current ideas, findings, and controversies regarding the origins or site of generation of these responses. Clinical application of the responses is discussed from two perspectives, audiologic applications and neurologic applications. Essential parameters for evoking, recording and analyzing clinically these responses are summarized. Some of the problems resulting from a lack of standardized clinical testing protocols are also mentioned. Key findings from recent clinical studies of some investigators are cited. Also recent data concerning the developmental aspects of the responses on clinical testing are included. Finally, some directions for future research on these responses are discussed. One of the latest techniques for recording and analyzing the responses and its implications for site of lesion neurologic testing are described.