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Pediatric otoacoustic emissions (OAE)
What is a pediatric otoacoustic emissions (OAE) test?
Otoacoustic emissions (OAEs) are low-intensity sound waves produced in the inner ear. In a healthy ear, outer hair cells on the cochlea will "echo" acoustic stimuli. An otoacoustic emissions test is an effective screening method to assess hearing in newborns.
Audiologists measure OAEs by inserting a probe equipped with speakers and a microphone into your baby's outer ear canal. The probe's speakers generate clicks while the microphone measures the resulting OAEs. The OAE test is quick and painless and provides the screener with immediate results. Most newborns respond well to OAE testing, although a few patients may need further screenings.
Types
- Distortion product OAE (DPOAEs) emit a pair of brief tones at two different frequencies. DPOAE can test for cochlear or noise-induced damage and ototoxicity.
- Transient evoked OAE (TEOAEs) emit a single click that covers a broad range of frequencies. It is most often used in infant screening, to confirm other tests or to check cochlear function.
What are the benefits of pediatric otoacoustic emissions (OAE) testing?
Otoacoustic emissions can reveal abnormalities in your baby's inner ear.
An OAE test can identify the following:
- Blockages in the auditory canal
- Normal inner ear function
- Proper tympanic membrane and outer hair cell function
Early detection of ear problems can help prevent future hearing loss.
What can I expect with pediatric otoacoustic emissions (OAE) testing?
To begin the test, the screener will insert the OAE device into your child's outer ear. The probe is equipped with speakers and a microphone to provide feedback.
Next, the doctor will activate the click(s). The device sends the test results to a computer. The audiologist will immediately be able to tell if he needs to refer your child for additional tests.
A referral does not necessarily mean your child has an ear disorder. Poor responses can result if the room is too noisy, your baby is fussy or if there is fluid in a newborn's ear (from the birth process). An OAE test is usually done a second time in the case of a poor response during the first screening.
What can I expect during pediatric otoacoustic emissions (OAE) testing?
An OAE test typically takes just a few minutes. Your child does not need to actively participate to receive the test.
Pediatric otoacoustic emissions (OAE) doctors and providers
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Jennifer Alford, AuD Audiologist -
Bethany Baumgart, AuD Audiologist -
Bethany Brum, AuD Audiologist -
Tiana Delgado, AuD Audiologist -
William Even, AuD Audiologist -
Jason Feinberg, AuD Audiologist -
Kelli Freeman, AuD Audiologist -
Andrew Golboro, AuD Audiologist -
Brenna Holloway, AuD Audiologist -
Laurie Huynh, AuD Audiologist -
Jenna Jones, AuD Audiologist -
Christina Lobarinas, AuD Audiologist -
Amanda Lovering, AuD Audiologist -
Kris Owen, AuD Audiologist -
Sarah Elizabeth Taylor Phillips, AuD Audiologist -
Madalyn Rieck, AuD Audiologist -
Teriann Scheets, AuD Audiologist -
Paige Wahl, AuD Audiologist -
Johanna Whitson AuD, AuD Audiologist
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is a pediatric otoacoustic emissions (OAE) testing safe?
Otoacoustic testing is completely safe. The procedure is non-invasive and takes only 10 to 30 seconds for each ear.
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Who needs a pediatric otoacoustic emissions (OAE) testing?
Otoacoustic emissions tests are a common screening method for newborns and infants under 90 days of age. It may also be used on older children with developmental disabilities or those who won’t tolerate other types of hearing tests.
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What does a pediatric otoacoustic emissions (OAE) screening test for?
The test can identify abnormal inner ear functioning, any blockages in the auditory canal or damage to the outer hair cells. An OAE test does not, however, record inner hair cell functions or auditory processing functioning.
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Is a pediatric otoacoustic emissions (OAE) test conclusive?
No, an OAE test can be compromised by outside noises or if your child is restless or fussy. The test will often be performed a second time to verify the initial results.
