Brain stem auditory evoked potentials in determining site of lesion of brain stem gliomas in children.

Brain stem auditory evoked potential (BAEP) test results are reported on seven children (2 1/2-13 years) with brain stem neoplasms. In each case, the BAEP test results clearly indicated the site of lesion as determined by computerized tomography and observation during surgery. Seven criteria for the assessment of BAEP test results are also presented: 1. Peak latency, 2. Intra-peak latency, 3. Inter-peak latency, 4. Response stability, 5. Amplitude, 6. Waveshape, and 7. Peak presence. Six children had positive indications on at least four of the seven criteria described, while one child had two positive indications. However, dramatic abnormality on any single criterion warrants serious investigation.