SensoDetect® BERA

When a sound reaches the ear, it is instantly converted into electric signals by the hair cells. These impulses are then further processed as they are propagated along the auditory pathway of the brain. It is only after extensive filtering and grouping that a sound can be perceived and categorized. The SensoDetect® BERA technology efficiently and reliably measures and analyzes these processes. The results can then be classified as typical or atypical in relation to different psychiatric conditions.

The product developed by SensoDetect, SensoDetect® BERA (SensoDetect Brainstem Evoked Response Audiometry), is a test instrument with wide application range. In psychiatric and neuropsychiatric conditions, SensoDetect® BERA provides an objective basis for diagnostic investigations by physicians and psychologists. SensoDetect® BERA includes the entire chain: from the generation of sound stimuli, to the measurement of the patient’s response to the sounds, and analysis where recorded values are compared to profiles typical of psychiatric conditions.

Currently, SensoDetect® BERA indicates schizophrenia and ADHD using a procedure that is non-invasive and does not upset the patient. SensoDetect® BERA is also very easy for health care staff to handle. There is also potential for indicating other neuropsychiatric conditions. SensoDetect® BERA provides a second opinion in cases of uncertain or difficult diagnoses. It is a powerful tool for differentiating closely related diagnoses and for screening and/or investigating during the early stages of a disease. SensoDetect® BERA can also be used for research purposes.

SensoDetect® BERA: Harmless, non-invasive method

• Physician or psychologist requires an objective physiological examination as part of the diagnostic process. The patient and health care staff are informed on the test procedure and the patient’s medication is noted before measurement. Central stimulants used to treat ADHD should not be taken on the day of the measurement, since they may affect the results.
• The test procedure takes place in a dark and silent room. Four electrodes are applied to the head of the patient: two on the forehead and two behind the ears.
• The patient reclines in a comfortable chair with the eyes closed for less than 40 minutes and listens to 15,000 sound clicks played in earphones. The sound level does not exceed the level of ordinary conversation between two people (70 dB). The procedure requires no active participation from the patient.
• After the test is completed, recorded data are sent to SensoDetect for analysis. Analysis is done by a physician and an audiologist.
• The analysis is then used as diagnostic decision support by the referring professional. The referral response, which can, as preferred, be sent either by mail or electronically, is available to the referring professional within a week. Analysis of test results for research purposes may take slightly longer.