Hearing tests in practice : Audiometric masking in pure-tone and speech audiometry

Abstract

Correct execution of hearing tests is essential for audiologic diagnostics and selection of treatment by the ENT physician. Especially in the case of pure-tone and speech audiometry, incorrectly performed audiometric masking can lead to false measurement results. Often, hearing that is too good is feigned by overhearing in the contralateral ear. Herein, amasking strategy is described by which errors in the execution of masking can be recognized and corrected. The aim of this paper is to identify and prevent the most common errors made during the masking process in pure-tone and speech audiometry.