What is BERA ?
BERA stands for "Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response" or "Brainstem Auditory Evoked Potential." It is a diagnostic test used to assess the function of the auditory pathways in the brainstem, particularly the response of the auditory nerve and brainstem structures to sound stimuli. BERA is also known as Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) in some regions.
The BERA test is often used in cases where traditional audiometry may not be feasible or accurate, such as with infants, young children, or individuals with certain neurological conditions. It provides valuable information about the integrity of the auditory pathway from the ear to the brainstem.
How BERA / ABR test is done ?
Here's how the BERA test is typically conducted:
- Preparation: Electrodes are placed on the patient's scalp to measure the brain's electrical responses. These electrodes are usually positioned at specific points to capture the brain's activity.
- Stimulus Presentation: The patient is exposed to a series of clicking sounds or tone bursts through headphones or earplugs. These sounds create an auditory stimulus that travels from the ear to the brainstem.
- Electrode Recording: The electrodes on the scalp detect the electrical responses generated by the auditory nerve and brainstem structures in response to the sound stimuli. These responses are very small and require sensitive equipment to measure.
- Signal Processing: The recorded electrical signals are amplified, filtered, and analyzed by a computer. The resulting waveform represents the brain's response to the auditory stimulus.
- Interpretation: The audiologist or healthcare professional interprets the waveform patterns to assess the function of the auditory pathway. Abnormalities or delays in the waveform can provide information about the presence and location of any hearing-related issues.
BERA/ABR tests are commonly used for various purposes:
- Newborn Hearing Screening: BERA can be used to identify hearing issues in newborns who may not yet be able to respond to traditional audiometric testing.
- Diagnosis of Auditory Disorders: BERA helps diagnose a range of auditory disorders, including hearing loss, auditory neuropathy, and neurological conditions affecting the auditory pathway.
- Monitoring: BERA can track changes in auditory function over time, helping to assess the progress of treatment or interventions.
- Intraoperative Monitoring: BERA is sometimes used during surgeries that may impact auditory function to ensure the integrity of the auditory pathways.
Overall, BERA is a valuable tool for evaluating the auditory system's function, particularly in cases where traditional audiometry may be challenging. It provides important insights into the auditory pathway and assists healthcare professionals in making accurate diagnoses and treatment decisions.
