Comparison of protocols consideration for Pure Tone Averages in clinical diagnosis of Presbycusis

Background:Adults suffer with age related hearing loss or Presbycusis which is even progressive due to auditory deprivation condition. Therefore, hearing aids are one of the most important recommendations for SNHL cases. The compromised speech perception ability may be due to the improper diagnostic procedures for Pure tone average calculations to diagnose the hearing loss and even due tothe software programming methods requiring the Pure tone averageto hearing aid fittings may also beinappropriate.

Aims and objective:The purpose of this research article is to provide insight on the two Pure tone audiometry protocols to diagnose hearing loss in only presbycusis cases. Materials and Method:  The severity diagnosis of hearing loss is based on 3 frequencies (500Hz, 1KHz, 2KHz) vs 4 frequencies (500Hz, 1KHz, 2KHz, 4KHz) Pure tone average calculations. Pure tone audiometry was performed on 30 subject participants in this study within age group of 50-75 yrs. Statistical analyses was done through SPSS software.

Results and discussion:The findings revealed no significant differences in PTA calculation over the 2 different protocols and therefore no changes in diagnosing the severity of SNHL due to Presbycusis were observed in this study.