Predicting abnormal auditory brainstem response outcomes using risk factors

Auditory brainstem response (ABR) testing diagnoses hearing loss in children unable to complete behavioral audiometry. ABR evaluations have been scheduled for 60-min operating room (OR) blocks regardless of hearing loss risk, resulting in poor utilization and prolonged wait times. At Akron Children's Hospital, wait times averaged 82 days....

✦ Clinical Takeaway ✦

If validated, a risk-factor model for abnormal ABR outcomes could help prioritize which children need expedited electrophysiological testing, but findings from this single study should not yet change referral thresholds.

✦ Why It Matters ✦

Identifying predictive risk factors for abnormal ABR could streamline pediatric audiology referral pathways and reduce diagnostic delays in children with suspected hearing loss.

✦ Key Points ✦

01Study aimed to build a predictive model for abnormal ABR results in pediatric patients.
02Targets children who cannot complete behavioral audiometry — a common clinical challenge.
03Risk factors investigated likely include perinatal history, NICU admission, and family history.
04Could support triage decisions in busy pediatric audiology services.
05Published in the International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology (2026).

✦ Claims & Evidence ✦

ClaimEvidenceSupport

Specific risk factors can predict abnormal ABR outcomes in children unable to complete behavioral audiometry.

studypartially supported

✦ Research metadata ✦

PMID: 42296693
DOI: 10.1016/j.ijporl.2026.112903.
Journal: International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology
Publication type: research_article
Evidence level: 2b
Population: Children unable to complete behavioral audiometry, referred for ABR testing
Intervention: Risk factor assessment for predicting abnormal ABR outcomes
Comparator: Normal ABR outcome group

Primary outcomes

Prediction of abnormal auditory brainstem response outcomes using identified risk factors

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