Brainstem auditory evoked potential in COPD patients : a comparative study

Abstract

<b>Background:</b> Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by airflow limitation and air exchange abnormalities which causes hypoxemia. Furthermore, in addition to the bronchial inflammation, COPD, is associated with systemic inflammation. These mechanisms can contribute to hearing alterations. <b>Aims:</b> Our aim was to assess whether COPD is associated or not with alteration of brainstem auditory evoked potentials (BAEP). <b>Methods:</b> We conducted a cross sectional study including two groups: G1: COPD patients and G2 healthy volunteers. Age and spirometric indices before (BBD) and after (ABD) bronchodilator (FEV1(%), FVC (%)) were collected. The auditory function was evaluated using the BAEP in both ears left (L) and right(R). The latency (ms) of I, III and V waves and the interpeak latency (IPL) I-III, I-V and III-V were measured. <b>Results:</b> 30 males aged 59.6 ±5.7 years old were included: (G1=15 vs G2=15). BAEP abnormalities had been frequent and found in 80% of G1. As expected, both of the wave I latencies (L and R) had been significantly prolonged (L:1.73±0.15, R:1,7±0.12) comparing with the control group respectively (L:1.61±0.1, R:1,68±0.14) (P&lt; 0.05). By contrast, the V latency had been significantly prolonged in COPD patients in one side R. Similarly, the Mann Withney test had shown significant prolongation of the R I-III in COPD whereas no significant difference had been noted for both waves III-V and I–V. Surprisingly, the Spearman test had demonstrated significant positive correlation between I latencies and FEV1 ABD (R: r=0.569, p&lt;0.05) and FVC ABD (R: r=0.611, p&lt;0.05). <b>Conclusion:</b> The auditory dysfunction is frequent in COPD. The BAEP seems to be a suitable tool to assess this dysfunction.