For referring physicians and psychologists

Evoked Response Audiometry (ERA) is the general term for examinations that measure and register electric potentials i.e. evoked potentials (EP), generated in the auditory system following acoustic stimulation. Acoustically evoked potentials can be studied using various methods. The nature of acoustic stimulation, the design and placement of the electrodes, the windows of time measured, the number of signals forming the average value and the electric filtering may vary, depending on the focus of the investigation. Early auditory responses are studied using methods such as brainstem audiometry (ABR, Auditory Brainstem Response).

Brainstem audiometry is currently used at audiology clinics, primarily to evaluate hearing thresholds, to diagnose sensorineural hearing loss and brainstem lesions. An ABR test involves attaching surface electrodes to the forehead, and behind the ears at processus mastoideus. Acoustic stimuli are presented in earphones. The electric signals from the electrodes are amplified and averages are formed, resulting in graphic curves with peaks and troughs. The curves are analyzed by investigating the characteristics of ABR latencies (i. e. the amount of time that has elapsed since the stimulus was presented) and amplitudes. Click sounds (unfiltered or filtered) or brief tone pulses may be used as auditory stimuli.

We use our self-developed, patented sounds that represent different aspects of hearing. Our previous research has shown that results from schizophrenic patients differ from that of reference subjects. Furthermore, specific wave patterns have also been discovered for patients diagnosed with ADHD. Documentation of previous research is available on request.

Test Procedure

The patient reclines comfortably in an armchair. No active participation is required. The patient should be as relaxed and calm as possible during the measurement. Surface electrodes are applied to the skin: two on the forehead and one behind each ear. Sounds stimuli are presented through headphones. The test procedure takes about 30 minutes and no preparation is necessary.

Medication

The patient should not take ADHD medication on the day of the SensoDetect® BERA test, as this may affect the results. Other medications should be reported before the test starts.

Test Results

The data from the SensoDetect® BERA test are analyzed in Lund by a physician and an audiologist. Usually, the referring physician will have the referral response in about one week after the measurement. Analysis of measurements done for research purposes usually takes longer.

Medical director responsible for SensoDetect® BERA is Sören Nielzén, Associate Professor and Senior Physician. Contact at info(snabel-a)sensodetect(punkt)com.