AUDIOLOGY/ HEARING

Auditory Brainstem Response Test (ABR)

The ABR test is often used when more information is needed to complete an in-depth audiological evaluation. This test can assess the neurological functioning of older children and adults as well as the hearing sensitivity in babies and young children.

It is able to identify the presence of a hearing loss as well as a possible cause. It may also help identify certain medical conditions that affect hearing, such as tumors along the auditory pathway.

There is no discomfort from this test. The patient must relax and not move around while sounds are played into the ears through earphones. Sticker electrodes are placed on the forehead and behind the ears to detect brainwaves. This test actually measures the brain responding to sounds. Babies, young children or those who experience difficulty sitting still for a length of time may require sedation.