Otoacoustic emissions
Otoacoustic Emissions
Otoacoustic emissions (pronunciation: oʊtoʊ.ækʊˈstiːk ɪˈmɪʃənz) are sounds that are produced by the inner ear. They are a result of the cochlea's non-linear mechanics and are an inherent part of the normal functioning of the ear.
Etymology
The term "otoacoustic" is derived from the Greek words "oto" meaning ear and "acoustic" meaning to hear. The term "emission" refers to the production and discharge of something, especially gas or radiation. In this context, it refers to the sounds produced by the inner ear.
Types of Otoacoustic Emissions
There are four main types of otoacoustic emissions:
- Spontaneous otoacoustic emissions (SOAEs) - Sounds that are emitted without an acoustic stimulus.
- Transient otoacoustic emissions (TOAEs) - Sounds that are emitted in response to an acoustic stimuli of very short duration; usually clicks or pops.
- Distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAEs) - Sounds that are emitted in response to two simultaneous tones of different frequencies.
- Sustained-frequency otoacoustic emissions (SFOAEs) - Sounds that are emitted in response to a continuous tone.
Clinical Importance
Otoacoustic emissions have been found to be very important in the field of audiology and otolaryngology. They are used in the diagnosis and monitoring of hearing loss and ear diseases. They can also be used to test the function of the cochlea in the inner ear, especially in neonates and other populations where conventional hearing tests might be difficult to administer.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Otoacoustic emissions
- Wikipedia's article - Otoacoustic emissions
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