Auditory sensitivity in children using the auditory steady-state response.

OBJECTIVE To determine the effectiveness of auditory steady-state response (ASSR) as a measure of hearing sensitivity in young children suspect for significant hearing loss. DESIGN Within-subject comparisons of click auditory brainstem response (ABR) thresholds and ASSR thresholds. SUBJECTS The study population comprised 42 children suspect for hearing loss and subsequently referred for hearing assessment using electrophysiologic techniques. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Electrophysiologic threshold responses for click ABR and ASSR stimuli (0.5, 1, 2, and 4 kHz) for right and left ears. RESULTS Based on ABR and ASSR thresholds, 50% of the subjects demonstrated significant hearing loss in the severe to profound range. In some subjects, ASSRs were present at higher stimulus levels when click ABRs were absent. Significant correlations (P<.05) were found between high-frequency ASSR and click ABR thresholds for this study sample. For some subjects, ASSR findings suggested differences between ears that were not observable from the no-response click ABR results. CONCLUSIONS Auditory steady-state response testing may provide additional information for children who demonstrate hearing levels in the severe to profound range. This information may be helpful when selecting the ear for cochlear implantation for a young hearing-impaired child. Multiple objective methods, such as ABR and ASSR testing, may be needed to determine accurate hearing sensitivity for young children being considered for sensory devices, and in particular, cochlear implants.