Original Research The outcomes of an audiological management programme for neonates with hyperbilirubinaemia

Moleboge M. Matshete, Samantha Govender, Sam T. Ntuli

South African Journal of Communication Disorders | Vol 71, No 1 | a1014 | DOI: https://doi.org/10.4102/sajcd.v71i1.1014 | © 2024 Moleboge M. Matshete, Samantha Govender, Sam T. Ntuli | This work is licensed under CC Attribution 4.0
Submitted: 22 September 2023 | Published: 09 October 2024

About the author(s) Moleboge M. Matshete, Department Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, School of Health Care Sciences, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa
Samantha Govender, Department Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, School of Health Care Sciences, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa
Sam T. Ntuli, Department Statistical Science, School of Science and Technology, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa

Abstract

Background: Hyperbilirubinaemia is a contributing condition to the prevalence of neonatal hearing loss. Because of its pathophysiology, the use of Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) and Automated Auditory Brainstem Response (AABR) testing is essential in diagnosing hearing loss. Two-tier screening models are typically used in developing world contexts; however, a combined approach to testing (using both tests) should be used for early detection. Blood serum levels should also be monitored to determine how they impact audiological test results.

Objectives: To determine the outcomes of using a combined testing approach of both OAE and Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) for both screening and diagnostic testing of neonates with hyperbilirubinaemia and studying the relationship between the test results and the serum bilirubin levels.

Method: A cross-sectional, comparative design was utilised. Forty neonates were tested (80 ears). Neonates underwent hearing screening and diagnostic testing (ABR and/or AABR and DPOAE tests). The study was conducted at a hospital in South Africa.

Results: One-third (32.5%) of the neonates had comorbidities. Screening results indicated that the AABR test could identify more cases of abnormalities than DPOAEs (p = 0.001). Participants with a serum level greater than 10 mg/dL presented with abnormal diagnostic ABR test results while passing the DPOAE test (p < 0.001).

Conclusion: Combined use of ABR and DPOAE testing yielded a greater identification of auditory pathology than using either test alone. Serum bilirubin levels can be used as an indicator for combination testing.

Contribution: Combined use of ABR and DPOAE testing leads to greater identification of auditory pathology.

Keywords

hyperbilirubinaemia; hearing loss; auditory brainstem response; otoacoustic emissions; low birth weight; neonates; serum bilirubin level.

Sustainable Development Goal

Goal 3: Good health and well-being

Metrics Total abstract views: 31
Total article views: 30

Crossref Citations

No related citations found.