New hearing test can diagnose autism in newborns

Non-invasive hearing test suitable for the early detection of autism

Early diagnosis of disease is important for proper patient management and successful treatment. A non-invasive hearing test, according to the latest research, could improve the early detection and diagnosis of autism in newborns.

The scientists at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine found in their current research that a non-invasive hearing test allows the early detection and diagnosis of autism. The physicians published the results of their study in the English language journal "American Osteopathic Association" (JAOA).

Children with autism find it difficult to engage in social relationships and often look like outsiders to outsiders. (Image: dubova / fotolia.com)

Can our hearing refer to ASA?

Currently, a so-called Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in children is typically diagnosed at the age of four, using tests that rely largely on speech. However, according to the latest research, experts now believe that the key to early diagnosis could be the detection of hearing problems. Therefore, the medical profession proposes to use acoustic reflex tests in which pressure changes in the middle ear are measured in response to noises. In such a non-invasive test, the sensitivity and response times of a subject are evaluated for a wide frequency range.

Autism can be associated with hypersensitivity of the hearing

People with autism often suffer from hypersensitivity of hearing, which means that even relatively quiet sounds can feel like overwhelming noise, says study author Professor Randy Kulesza of Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine. When parents and doctors consider this from the start, they can work to improve the child's sensitivity and make their experiences with the environment less intense and frightening.

Deficits can be improved through exercises

Conducting acoustic reflex testing provides much more information about the types of dysfunctions that would allow for treatment that can begin years before the onset of symptoms. The right countermeasures taken at an early stage could positively influence these deficits through a kind of training. Researchers also point out that hearing is crucial to language development, which in turn can influence the socio-emotional development that many children are struggling with ASD. Scientists believe that optimizing the auditory system can fundamentally improve a person's quality of life. Although there are obvious associations between ASD and hearing impairment, further research is needed to understand how best to use interventions for people with hearing disorders. Positive tests for hearing impairment could allow tailor-made early intervention that maximizes the potential of children, the authors of the study explain. (As)