Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) is a neurophysiological test used to assess how the auditory nerve and brainstem respond to sound. It’s a type of evoked potential test, meaning it measures electrical activity in response to auditory stimuli (like clicks or tones).

How It Works:

• Small electrodes are placed on the scalp and earlobes or mastoid bones.

• Headphones or ear inserts deliver a series of sound stimuli (usually clicks or tone bursts).

• The electrodes record the brain’s electrical activity in response to the sound.

• The resulting waveforms reflect neural activity along the auditory pathway, particularly the auditory nerve and brainstem.

What It’s Used For:

• Newborn hearing screening (common use)

• Diagnosing hearing loss in infants, young children, or individuals who can’t do standard hearing tests

• Assessing auditory nerve and brainstem function, especially in cases of:

  • Acoustic neuromas

  • Multiple sclerosis

  • Unexplained hearing loss or dizziness

  • Coma or brain death assessments

Key Features:

• Non-invasive

• No active participation required from the patient (they can even be asleep)

• Measures waves I-V, each corresponding to a different point in the auditory pathway