Pure tone audiometry (PTA) is the key hearing test used to identify hearing threshold levels of an individual, enabling determination of the degree, type and configuration of a hearing loss.[1] Thus, providing the basis for diagnosis and management. PTA is a subjective, behavioural measurement of hearing threshold, as it relies on patient response to pure tone stimuli. Therefore, PTA is used on adults and children old enough to cooperate with the test procedure.
Tympanometry is an examination used to test the condition of the middle ear[1] and mobility of the eardrum (tympanic membrane) and the conduction bones by creating variations of air pressure in the ear canal. Tympanometry is an objective test of middle-ear function. It is not a hearing test, but rather a measure of energy transmission through the middle ear. The test should not be used to assess the sensitivity of hearing and the results of this test should always be viewed in conjunction with pure tone audiometry.
Otoacoustic emissions (OAE) are inaudible sounds emitted by the cochlea when the cochlea is stimulated by a sound. When sound stimulates the cochles, the outer hair cells vibrate. The vibration produces an inaudible sound that echoes back into the middle ear. The sound can be measured with a small probe insertedinto the ear canal. Persons with normal hearing produce emissions. Those with hearing loss greater than 25-30 db does not emitted. OAEs can detect blockage in the outer ear canal,middle ear fluid, and damage to the outer hair cells in the cochlea.
Auditory Evoked Response (BAER), is an objective procedure used to measure the function of the brainstem in response to sound. The results can provide general information regarding hearing sensitivity. This test can also be used for neuro-diagnostic purposes, to determine if the brainstem is transmitting sound properly. A series of clicks or tones are presented to the patient while she/he rests or sleeps. Electrodes are placed on the head to detect the response of the brainstem to the sounds; the electrodes do not cause any pain or discomfort.
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