A recent area of research is exploring the application of auditory brainstem response (ABR) testing in identification of autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Currently, ASD is typically diagnosed between the ages of 2 and 4 years. Earlier identification may allow for implementation of intervention at critical time periods of development. A review of the literature suggests that children with ASD often exhibit prolonged ABR latencies compared to controls, but there are several studies that do not support this relationship.
A meta-analysis of 25 studies (n=1,349; 727 ASD and 622 controls) by Miron et al (2018) found that infants and children with ASD demonstrated a prolongation of absolute wave-V latency and individuals over 18 years of age with ASD, a shorter wave-V latency. Outside of consideration of early brainstem maturation considerations, conductive components, and technical considerations, the authors suggest the ABR may serve as a low cost ASD biomarker at infancy.
Reference
Miron, Beam, Kohane. (2018). Auditory brainstem response in infants and children with autism spectrum disorder: A meta-analysis of wave-V, Autism Research 11(2):355-363.
Recent Posts
Academy Recognizes First Distinguished Fellows of the American Academy of Audiology (DFAAA)
The American Academy of Audiology is proud to announce the inaugural cohort of Distinguished Fellows of the American Academy of Audiology (DFAAA), a prestigious honor…
The Government Is Shutdown, Now What?
Congress has failed to avert a government shutdown. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is expected to face significant workforce reductions across its…
Meet the Academy Board of Directors
The American Academy of Audiology is proud to announce its Board of Directors, a group of dedicated leaders guiding the profession forward and ensuring the…