Effects of methylphenidate on auditory processing assessment: a case study

Abstract

Model of the study: case report. Introduction: The Auditory Processing Disorder (APS) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) show similarity for signs and symptoms, however are unique and comorbidities may be presented correlated. Importance of the study: APD and ADHD present similar symptoms and may be correlated, but there is a need for differential diagnosis between such comorbidities to improve the quality of life of the subject. Purpose: This study analyzed the results of the auditory processing assessment in a subject with attention deficit, before and after use of the Methylphenidate medicine. Methods: It was used a battery of behavioral tests of auditory processing and the LongLatency Auditory Evoked Potential (LLAEP) in two different moments, before and after pharmacological treatment for attention deficit disorder. Comments: Participated on this study a subject of 22 years assessed in the Audiology Clinic of a University Hospital, because reported comprehension difficulty of speech in noise. The clinical history showed perinatal complications (prematurity, low birth weight, remain in neonatal ICU) and attention complaints over the years. Results: The results tests showed that there was a subtle improvement in performance during behavioral assessment of auditory processing, as well as in the electrophysiological assessment after the medication methylphenidate. Conclusion: These results emphasize the speech therapists/audiologists about the need to consider the use of medication methylphenidate by the patient at the time of auditory processing evaluation, as well as therapeutic process