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Semin Hear 2008; 29(2): 159-168
DOI: 10.1055/s-2008-1075823
© Thieme Medical Publishers

Diagnosis

Sandra Abbott Gabbard1 , 3 , 4 , 6 , Jennifer Schryer2 , 3 , 5 , 6 , R.S. Ackley2 , 3 , 5 , 6
  • 1Associate Professor
  • 2Clinical Instructor
  • 3University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Aurora, Colorado
  • 4Director of Audiology
  • 5Clinical Audiologist
  • 6University of Colorado Hospital, Aurora, Colorado
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
28 May 2008 (online)

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ABSTRACT

The goal of early identification of hearing loss in children should include the timely and accurate diagnosis of permanent unilateral hearing loss (UHL) of any degree and mild bilateral hearing loss (MBHL), which are common conditions of childhood. UHL and MBHL can result in developmentally significant conditions that can affect speech, language, learning, and social-emotional development. This article will review current assessment strategies that contribute to the goal of early and accurate diagnosis of UHL and MBHL. An overview of the components of the test battery includes electrophysiologic, otoacoustic, and behavioral methods while using ear-specific and frequency-specific strategies. Issues are discussed that may challenge audiologists during the identification process. The article concludes that though there are many unanswered questions in need of further research, current assessment strategies generally are effective and time and cost efficient in the identification of UHL and MBHL.

KEYWORDS

Mild hearing loss - unilateral hearing loss - pediatric audiology - childhood hearing loss

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Sandra Abbott GabbardPh.D. 

Associate Professor, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Director of Audiology, University of Colorado Hospital

1635 N. Ursula Street, P.O. Box 6510, F736, Aurora, CO 80045

Email: Sandra.gabbard@uch.edu

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