BERA Test
- Dr. Pratibha Pandit Mane
- Jul 27
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 12
What is the BERA Hearing Test?
BERA (Brainstem Evoked Response Audiometry) is a non-invasive, objective test that measures how well the auditory nerve and brainstem respond to sound. It’s often used for:
Newborn hearing screening
Diagnosing hearing loss in infants or children
Detecting neurological or auditory pathway issues
How Does It Work?
The BERA test involves a few simple steps:
Small electrodes are placed on the scalp and earlobes.
The person wears headphones and hears clicking sounds or tone bursts.
The machine records electrical responses from the auditory nerve and brainstem.
This test does not require a response from the person, making it ideal for infants or individuals who cannot actively participate in a hearing test.
Why Is It Done?
The BERA test is performed for several reasons:
To screen for hearing loss, especially in newborns.
To assess brainstem function in individuals with suspected neurological problems.
To evaluate auditory nerve disorders (e.g., acoustic neuroma).
Duration and Preparation
The BERA test is relatively quick and straightforward:
It takes around 15–45 minutes to complete.
No special preparation is needed.
The person needs to stay quiet and still during the test. Infants may be tested while sleeping.
Advantages of the BERA Test
The BERA test offers several benefits:
It is objective and accurate.
The procedure is safe and painless.
It is useful even in uncooperative patients.
Understanding BERA Test Results
Normal BERA Results
When interpreting BERA results, normal findings include:
Waveforms (usually I–V) are recorded.
The latencies (timing) and interpeak intervals (e.g., I–III, III–V, I–V) should fall within established normal ranges.
In normal hearing, all waves are present, and latencies are within normal limits.
Abnormal BERA Results
Conversely, abnormal results may indicate various issues:
Absent waves may suggest significant hearing loss.
Prolonged interpeak intervals can indicate brainstem pathology.
Asymmetry between ears may suggest a nerve tumor or lesion.
Conclusion
The BERA hearing test is a vital tool in audiology. It provides crucial information about auditory function and brainstem activity. With its non-invasive nature and ability to assess even the youngest patients, it plays a significant role in early detection of hearing issues. If you suspect hearing loss or neurological problems, consider discussing the BERA test with a healthcare professional.
By understanding the importance of this test, you can take proactive steps towards ensuring better auditory health.
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