The Brainstem Evoked Response Audiometry (BERA) test is an objective test used to assess how electrical waves travel from the eighth cranial nerve (auditory nerve) to the brainstem in response to click noises delivered through the ear. It is a helpful tool for diagnosing hearing loss, particularly in infants and young children.
The BERA test measures the electrical activity of the auditory pathway, which includes the ear, auditory nerve, brainstem, and auditory cortex. These electrical signals are recorded as waves on a computer screen, and the timing and amplitude of these waves provide information about the functionality of the auditory pathway.
Here are some key details about the BERA test:
- Purpose: To assess hearing function and identify any abnormalities in the auditory pathway.
- Procedure: Click noises are delivered through earphones, and electrodes are placed on the scalp to record the brain's electrical response.
- Applications: Primarily used for diagnosing hearing loss in infants and young children, but can also be used for adults with suspected auditory nerve damage.
- Benefits: Objective test, doesn't rely on the individual's response or cooperation.
- Limitations: Can be influenced by factors like background noise, patient movement, and medical conditions.
Examples of why the BERA test is used:
- Newborn screening: To detect hearing loss in newborns who are at risk.
- Diagnosis of hearing loss: To determine the location and severity of hearing loss.
- Monitoring of auditory nerve function: To track the progression of auditory nerve damage.
References:
- BERA (Brainstem Evoked Response Audiometry) is an objective test used to determine how electrical waves are sent from the eighth cranial nerve to the brainstem in response to click noises delivered through the ear.
- BERA is a test that detects any abnormalities in the cranial nerve or brainstem. The test is advised for new-borns who are at significant risk of hearing loss…
- The brainstem evoked response audiometry (BERA) is an objective neurophysiological method for the evaluation of the hearing threshold and diagnosing…
- Brainstem Evoked Response Audiometry (BERA) is a hearing examination which is done to 1-3-year-old patients. If the results are good, it can be…
