Use of Otoacoustic Emissions as a Screening Tool in Early Detection of Hearing Loss in High-Risk Neonates

Background: Hearing plays a critical role in speech, language development, and cognitive growth during early childhood. Hearing impairment in neonates often remains undetected during the early months of life, leading to delayed speech and language development. Early identification through newborn hearing screening programs can significantly reduce long-term developmental consequences. Otoacoustic Emission (OAE) testing is a rapid, non-invasive, and cost-effective screening method that evaluates cochlear outer hair cell function. This study evaluates the effectiveness of OAE as a screening tool in detecting hearing loss among high-risk neonates.

Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) as a screening tool for early detection of hearing loss in high-risk neonates.

Materials and Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted among 140 high-risk neonates admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) or born to high-risk mothers at a tertiary care hospital over a period of 12 months. Neonates with one or more risk factors as per Joint Committee on Infant Hearing (JCIH) criteria were included. OAE testing using Distortion Product Otoacoustic Emissions (DPOAE) was performed after 48 hours of birth in a quiet environment. Results were categorized as “Pass” or “Refer.” Data were analysed using SPSS software.

Results: Out of 140 neonates screened, 118 (84.3%) passed the OAE test and 22 (15.7%) showed a “Refer” result. Hearing loss was significantly associated with risk factors such as prematurity, very low birth weight, hyperbilirubinemia requiring exchange transfusion, and NICU stay longer than five days.

Conclusion: OAE is an effective, simple, and non-invasive screening tool for early detection of hearing impairment in high-risk neonates. Implementation of routine newborn hearing screening using OAE can facilitate early diagnosis and timely intervention.