Audiometry in young children.

The author of this article reviews various techniques in the auditory assessment of infants and young children. The success of these tests depends on the overall functioning of the child, and not on chronological age alone. Any significant deviation from the normal auditory behaviour should raise suspicion of possible auditory impairment. Diagnostic audiology involves more than mere testing of the peripheral auditory mechanism in isolation. It necessitates investigation of possible neurological impairment, mental retardation, emotional disturbance, and hearing loss. Early diagnosis is facilitiated by the battery of auditory tests comprising behavioural, impedance audiometry and auditory brain-stem response audiometry. Interpretation of test findings must be carefully assessed in the light of other pertinent information.