Genetic causes of hearing loss in children.

Hearing loss affects various related aspects of a childs overall development. It is the cause of impaired development of speech and language, as well as poor performance in school and loss of cognitive potential. Hearing loss may also hinder and impair the childs social and emotional relationships. Genetic causes of congenital deafness in children are rare, nevertheless they are important, since early detection and effective treatment of hearing loss is one of the most urgent duties of any physician who cares for small children. Diagnosis is equally important as well, in terms of genetic counseling.