Brainstem Evoked Response Audiometry (BERA), also known as Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR), is a specialized hearing test that objectively measures the electrical activity generated by the auditory nerve and brainstem following sound stimulation. This assessment is especially useful for evaluating hearing in infants, young children, and others who cannot participate in traditional behavioral hearing tests. It provides detailed information about hearing thresholds and how well sound is transmitted along the auditory pathway.
The BERA test is recommended after a newborn fails an initial hearing check, in infants with certain risk factors such as prolonged NICU admission, exposure to medications harmful to hearing, or a family history of hearing loss. It is also indicated for children with delayed speech or when behavioral tests give unclear results. Adults or children with suspected retrocochlear disorders, auditory neuropathy, unexplained hearing loss, or unusual symptoms like asymmetrical hearing loss or persistent tinnitus may also benefit from this procedure.
During BERA, the scalp and areas near the ears are cleaned, and small adhesive electrodes are applied. The test involves presenting a sequence of clicking or tonal sounds via earphones while the person relaxes or sleeps. The process does not cause discomfort and usually requires about half an hour to an hour. The patterns of electrical responses gathered help audiologists and ENT specialists identify the presence and degree of hearing loss and reveal issues along the hearing nerve and brain pathways.
