Authors' objectives:

This study aims to assess the usefulness of otoacoustic emissions (OAE) as diagnostic test and their main indications at present.

Authors' results and conclusions: The evidence available in adults included in the studies mentioned is scarce although from a theoretical and physiopathological point of view, there is justification for the clinical application of OAE audiometry, specially to make a differential diagnosis of hearing damage, to screen patients who are difficult to evaluate (as when simulation is suspected), and to detect and monitor conditions potentially hazardous to hearing (work environment). It is important to point out that most studies have methodological weaknesses (for example, selection bias).

Authors' recommendations: There is consensus in many parts of the world to use otoacoustic emissions audiometry for the screening of hearing impairment in neonates and children who can not be evaluated using conventional tests. Although it is not routinely used, the National Ministry of Health supports this indication in infants and young children (Nat. Law. 25.415). Although its benefit has not been conclusively demonstrated, hearing disorders could be diagnosed earlier than with conventional methods, allowing for timely interventions.The groups of high risk neonates, for which this technology could be particularly useful as screening method, are those who present the following risk factors: neonatal intensive care unit hospitalization, family history of hearing damage, perinatal infection (either suspected or confirmed), weight at birth of less than 1.5 kg, facial and cranial deformity, asphyxia during delivery, distocic delivery, chromosome abnormality, including Down's syndrome and high bilirubin level or exchange blood transfusion. Its use could also be considered as diagnostic tool for cases were simulation is suspected, patients with cognitive impairment including Alzheimer's disease, for ear topographic differential diagnosis, as ancillary test for acoustic neurinoma, and monitoring of ototoxic drugs and damage caused by exposition to noise. The National Ministry of Health supports its use as part of the studies performed prior to cochlear implant surgery (National Resolution 46/04). Although its use could be temporally recommended for cases of serious tinnitus and Meniere Syndrome, more clinical research needs to be carried out to support its use. No local recommendations (FASO) were found about the use of OAEA in adults.

Authors' methods: Overview

Project Status: Completed

URL for project: http://www.iecs.org.ar/

Year Published: 2005

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: Argentina

Organisation Name: Institute for Clinical Effectiveness and Health Policy

Contact Address: Dr. Emilio Ravignani 2024, Buenos Aires - Argentina, C1414 CABA

Contact Name: info@iecs.org.ar

Contact Email: info@iecs.org.ar

Copyright: Institute for Clinical Effectiveness and Health Policy (IECS)