Otoacoustic Emissions

What is an Otoacoustic Emissions Test?

An OAE test assesses the function of outer hair cells in the cochlea. It requires no active participation from the patient. An OAE machine analyzes the outer hair cell function by sending a sound into the ear. When a sound is sent into a normal functioning ear system, the outer hair cells will generate sounds (otoacoustic emissions) that can be measured by a sensitive microphone placed in the ear canal. If returning sounds are not detected by the device, the patient needs to have additional hearing testing to verify hearing status.

How are OAE Tests Performed?

An OAE hearing test machine is used to measure outer hair cell function. To conduct an OAE hearing test, a small probe that generates a calibrated stimulus is placed into the ear canal. The stimulus is sent into the ear canal and the OAE response is measured through a very sensitive microphone in the same probe. The device screen displays the result as either “pass” or “refer.” Refer indicates that additional testing is needed to verify hearing status.

What is the Difference Between Screening and Diagnostic OAE Testing?

Screening OAE testing is a basic evaluation that provides an automated result and is typically performed by technicians or medical assistants. No interpretation is required as the equipment uses sophisticated algorithms to assign a pass or refer result. Screening OAE testing is used in universal newborn hearing screening programs and for pre-school and school hearing screenings. Diagnostic OAE testing is a more comprehensive evaluation of outer hair cells that is used in conjunction with other tests designed to diagnose hearing loss, like audiometry and tympanometry. Diagnostic OAE tests are performed by licensed hearing healthcare professionals such as audiologists and require knowledge of the auditory system to interpret the test results.