In:
ORL, S. Karger AG, Vol. 69, No. 4 ( 2007), p. 239-244
Abstract:
〈 i 〉 Aims: 〈 /i 〉 It was the aim of this study to describe risk factors in auditory neuropathy/auditory synaptopathy (AN/AS). 〈 i 〉 Methods: 〈 /i 〉 Between 1997 and 2005, we diagnosed 37 children with AN/AS. They underwent a critical chart review for risk factors and etiological coincidences in this idiosyncratic disorder. 〈 i 〉 Results: 〈 /i 〉 Eighteen neonates had a history of prematurity and low birth weight. Hyperbilirubinaemia was present in 13 children. Three patients had evidence of infection during pregnancy, and AN/AS was associated with complex syndromal diseases in 2 cases. A congenital, familial pattern was seen in 2 siblings. Seven patients had idiopathic AN/AS. 〈 i 〉 Conclusion: 〈 /i 〉 Rather than being a single etiological entity, AN/AS comprises a spectrum of risk factors and associated problems affecting the cochlea and the auditory pathway. This study shows that the majority of AN/AS in children is the result of perinatal problems and is not genetic in origin. Hyperbilirubinaemia is a common and etiologically significant finding in infants suffering from AN/AS. Thus, early hearing screening for AN/AS including transient evoked otoacoustic emissions and auditory brainstem response assessment among neonates with risk factors for AN/AS is crucial in order to better manage patients suffering from this disorder.
Type of Medium:
Online Resource
ISSN:
0301-1569
,
1423-0275
Language:
English
Publisher:
S. Karger AG
Publication Date:
2007
detail.hit.zdb_id:
1483533-2
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