Apgar scores in the identification of sensorineural hearing loss

Apgar scores of 0-4 at 1 minute and 0-6 at 5 minutes have been investigated as risk criteria in the Utah High Risk Hearing Screening Program. The 1990 Joint Committee on Infant Hearing (JCIH) statement recommended only an Apgar score of 0-3 at 5 minutes be included in a risk registry for sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). An analysis of live births indicates the more lenient Utah cut-off criteria are justified. It is concluded that both of the Utah Apgar scores, even when moderately depressed, are sensitive risk factors for SNHL in infants. These findings suggest serious consideration be given to expanding the 1990 JCIH Apgar recommendation.