To evaluate the diagnostic utility of extended high-frequency audiometry (EHFA) and the efficacy of steroid therapy in acute acoustic trauma (AAT) during armed conflict.
Extended high-frequency audiometry may improve early detection of noise-induced hearing damage in acute battlefield trauma cases; steroid treatment outcomes data here could inform protocols for military audiology, though clinical translation depends on full study design and effect sizes.
Battlefield acoustic trauma is a major cause of permanent hearing loss in military personnel globally, and better diagnostic and treatment tools in acute settings could meaningfully reduce long-term disability.
- 01Extended high-frequency audiometry (above the standard 8 kHz ceiling) was assessed for diagnostic value in battlefield acoustic trauma.
- 02Steroid treatment outcomes were evaluated in conflict-zone patients with acute acoustic trauma.
- 03Published in International Journal of Audiology (PMID 42063353).
- 04Findings are relevant to military audiology and audiologists treating first-responders or veterans.
- 05Both diagnostic sensitivity and treatment efficacy of steroids are under investigation.
Extended high-frequency audiometry has diagnostic value in detecting acute acoustic trauma from battlefield noise.
studypartially supportedSteroid treatment improves hearing outcomes in battlefield acoustic trauma patients.
studyunclear- PMID
- 42063353
- DOI
- 10.1080/14992027.2026.2666356.
- Journal
- International Journal of Audiology
- Publication type
- research_article
- Evidence level
- 2b
- Population
- Military or conflict-zone patients with acute acoustic trauma from battlefield noise exposure
- Intervention
- Extended high-frequency audiometry for diagnosis; systemic steroid treatment
- Comparator
- Standard audiometry; no steroid or comparison treatment (comparator not confirmed)
Primary outcomes
Diagnostic value of extended high-frequency audiometry for battlefield acoustic trauma; Hearing recovery outcomes following steroid treatment