
What Does The Audiometry Test Report Indicate?

Question: hi,
My baby is now 60 days old. We had conducted audiometry test for my new born at 2 weeks, 4 weeks and now at 59 days. The test was conducted using OAE. All the 3 times the test showed as 'Refer'. Doctor suggested to ABR test since all the 3 times the test failed. As per my observation my baby is responding to sounds. I was wondering should I wait for some more time before doing any further tests as I have read in some internet material suggesting that the hearing might correct itself after 4 or 5 months itself. I am really worried and don't know if it is really a concern. Please guide me on this.
My baby is now 60 days old. We had conducted audiometry test for my new born at 2 weeks, 4 weeks and now at 59 days. The test was conducted using OAE. All the 3 times the test showed as 'Refer'. Doctor suggested to ABR test since all the 3 times the test failed. As per my observation my baby is responding to sounds. I was wondering should I wait for some more time before doing any further tests as I have read in some internet material suggesting that the hearing might correct itself after 4 or 5 months itself. I am really worried and don't know if it is really a concern. Please guide me on this.
Brief Answer:
Please do ABR
Detailed Answer:
Hello
The best and safest thing would be to do a ABR next.
OAE is a sensitive tool for detecting hearing loss, however many times it may be negative , like in the presence of ear wax or fluid in the middle ear and therefore it is not very specific.
In our hospital the protocol is to repeat oae twice and if it is refer, then to do an ABR
ABR is a very specific and sensitive tool and will definitely give you the right answer.
Please dont worry as your child is responding to sound, but just to be on the safer side, i would recommend that you undergo the test.
It is a very simple test and your child will not feel any discomfort.
Take care
Please do ABR
Detailed Answer:
Hello
The best and safest thing would be to do a ABR next.
OAE is a sensitive tool for detecting hearing loss, however many times it may be negative , like in the presence of ear wax or fluid in the middle ear and therefore it is not very specific.
In our hospital the protocol is to repeat oae twice and if it is refer, then to do an ABR
ABR is a very specific and sensitive tool and will definitely give you the right answer.
Please dont worry as your child is responding to sound, but just to be on the safer side, i would recommend that you undergo the test.
It is a very simple test and your child will not feel any discomfort.
Take care
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Nagamani Ng

Answered by

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
