Applications of extended high-frequency audiometry: a narrative review

Abstract

Background and Aim: Hearing loss assessment is typically done using the conventional pure tone audiometry (125 Hz to 8000 Hz). Extended high-frequency audiometry (EHFA), which covers the frequency range of 9000 Hz to 20000 Hz, is a very useful tool for detecting early hearing loss before engaging middle and low frequencies. The involvement of these frequencies significantly affects hearing sensitivity. The purpose of the present study was to review the literature on the early diagnosis of hearing impairment using EHFA. Recent Findings: EHFA has been suggested as a low utilization tool in clinical evaluation. How­ever, in recent years, a great deal of information has been provided in this area. This evaluation has proven to be useful in a variety of areas, including ototoxicity, noise-exposed individuals, and users of personal music devices, hidden hear­ing loss (HHL), middle ear infections, rheuma­toid arthritis, and Sjogren’s syndrome. Conclusion: Given the importance and appli­cation of this clinical tool in the early detection of hearing loss and its use in conjunction with other evaluations, better care planning and pre­vention can be offered to patients in some areas. Keywords: Extended high-frequency audiometry; middle ear infections; hidden hearing loss; ototoxic medications; noise exposure; personal music player