Otoacoustic emissions

Otoacoustic emissions (OAEs) are sounds that are produced by the inner ear. They are a result of the cochlea's non-linear mechanics and are an inherent part of the amplification process that optimizes the ear's sensitivity to quiet sounds. OAEs are used in newborn hearing screening programs and as a diagnostic tool in audiology.

History

The existence of OAEs was first predicted by Thomas Gold in 1948, but it was not until 1978 that David Kemp reported their actual existence. Kemp's discovery of OAEs has revolutionized the field of audiology and our understanding of the ear and hearing.

Types of Otoacoustic Emissions

There are four types of OAEs: Spontaneous otoacoustic emissions (SOAEs), Transient otoacoustic emissions (TOAEs), Distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAEs), and Sustained-frequency otoacoustic emissions (SFOAEs).

Spontaneous Otoacoustic Emissions

Spontaneous otoacoustic emissions (SOAEs) are sounds that are emitted without an acoustic stimulus. They are present in about 50% of normal-hearing individuals, but are not usually present in individuals with a hearing loss greater than 30 dB.

Transient Otoacoustic Emissions

Transient otoacoustic emissions (TOAEs) are sounds that are emitted in response to an acoustic stimuli of very short duration, such as a click or a pulse.

Distortion Product Otoacoustic Emissions

Distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAEs) are sounds that are emitted in response to two simultaneous tones of different frequencies.

Sustained-Frequency Otoacoustic Emissions

Sustained-frequency otoacoustic emissions (SFOAEs) are sounds that are emitted in response to a continuous tone.

Clinical Importance

OAEs are used in newborn hearing screening programs and as a diagnostic tool in audiology. They can provide information about the function of the cochlea, particularly about the function of the outer hair cells.

See Also

• Cochlea
• Audiology
• Hearing
• Inner ear

Otoacoustic emissions Resources
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