Investigating the ASSR as an indicator for 'Hidden' hearing loss
Research type
Research Study
Full title
An investigation into the use of the Auditory steady state response as a potential Indicator of ‘Hidden' hearing loss
IRAS ID
208580
Contact name
Julie Wilkins
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Imperial College London and Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 5 months, 20 days
Research summary
A hidden hearing loss is one which is not detectable by the standard hearing test. The standard test measures the function of the outer hair cells of the cochlea (the hearing organ). However, the inner hair cells of the cochlea also contribute to hearing and can become damaged either through age or noise exposure resulting in a 'hidden' hearing loss.
A more sensitive test can be achieved by measuring the auditory steady state response. This tests the full hearing pathway from the inner ear to the brain and it is hypothesized that a reduced response in this test may indicate reduced inner hair cell function. The auditory steady state response is measured using sticky sensors attached to the forehead, nape of the neck and behind the ears. A sound is played into the ear and the sensors measure a repeatable response from the auditory nerve.
This research project aims to identify if there is a relationship between the size of the auditory steady state response and the level of noise exposure experienced over current lifetime (an identified factor in hidden hearing loss). This study will investigate if there is a correlation between noise exposure scores (using a validated questionnaire) and the size of the auditory steady state response.
This study will not identify if participants have a Hidden hearing loss but will contribute to future research in identifying this condition. If the auditory steady state response can be used to identify hidden hearing loss this could have a significant impact on the way hearing is monitored in noisy work environments. The study will be conducted at charing cross hospital. Participants will need to attend for one appointment for a full hearing evaluation and the measurement of the auditory steady state response.REC name
Yorkshire & The Humber - Leeds West Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
17/YH/0056
Date of REC Opinion
3 Mar 2017
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion