# Auditory dysfunction and perinatal risk factors in high-risk infants: Insights from brainstem evoked response audiometry

## TL;DR

This study shows that high-risk infants are more likely to have hearing issues, linked to factors like jaundice and asphyxia, highlighting the need for early hearing screening.

## Contribution

The study identifies specific perinatal risk factors strongly associated with auditory dysfunction in high-risk infants using BERA.

## Key findings

- 30% of high-risk neonates showed abnormal BERA results.
- Severe hyperbilirubinemia, perinatal asphyxia, and prolonged mechanical ventilation were significantly linked to auditory dysfunction.
- Infants with abnormal BERA had prolonged wave V latency.

## Abstract

Congenital hearing impairment is a major developmental disability, especially among infants with perinatal risk factors. This
cross-sectional study evaluated 150 high-risk neonates in a NICU using Brainstem Evoked Response Audiometry (BERA). Abnormal BERA
findings were observed in 30% of infants, with significant associations to severe hyperbilirubinemia, perinatal asphyxia and prolonged
mechanical ventilation (p<0.001). Mean wave V latency was notably prolonged in infants with abnormal results. Thus, we show the
importance of universal newborn hearing screening, particularly in high-risk groups, to enable early diagnosis and timely intervention.