How Useful Are ABR (Auditory Brain Response) and DPOAE Tests to Assess Hearing?

Hi Dr. Nagler,

How useful do you think the Auditory Brain Response (ABR) and DPOAE tests are to assess hearing?

Thank you.

 

I am not an audiologist, and my knowledge of the usefulness of these tests is quite limited save for the fact that the ABR is supposed to be a very good screening test for hearing loss in newborns.

With respect to tinnitus, I am aware of the fact that a number of clinicians order these tests on their adult patients who present with intrusive tinnitus, but I have never been able to figure out how the results assist in actual decision-making.

Sorry I could not be more helpful.

Stephen M. Nagler, M.D.