A comparative study of OAE (OTO acoustic emission) and BERA (brainstem evoked response audiometry) / ASSR (auditory steady state response) as a screening of hearing loss among the children (<12 years of age) for hearing assessment in ENT OPD

Abstract

Normal speech and language development depend upon a child’s ability to hear spoken language. The most important period for language and speech development is generally regarded as the first 3 years of life. Pediatric hearing loss is a major concern in India due to high incidence of hearing loss in this age, high birth rate, lack of facilities and awareness for early diagnosis. Therefore, early detection and early identification of hearing loss is very important. The study was carried out in ENT Department, Sir T Hospital, Bhavnagar. A total of 100 children <12 years of age with hearing loss who were screened with OAE (OTO acoustic emission) and BERA (brainstem evoked response audiometry). Among 100 children (<12 years of age), majority of the cases were in age group of 6 to 12 yrs. Male patients are predominantly affected than other patients. The earlier intervention, better were results. It is important to have more awareness programs focusing on importance of early hearing screening in children. This current study indicated the importance of screening for hearing loss among children.