Tone decay test
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Tone Decay Test
Summary
The Tone Decay Test is a simple auditory assessment where a patient listens to a sustained tone to measure their ability to maintain auditory perception over time. It is commonly used to detect issues with auditory nerve function.
Purpose
The test is primarily used to identify retrocochlear pathology, such as auditory nerve tumors or neural hearing loss. The aim is to assess if the patient can sustain hearing a tone continuously without it fading away or decaying.
Indications
- Complaints of unilateral hearing loss
- Asymmetrical hearing difficulties
- Suspicion of auditory nerve disorders, including acoustic neuromas
- Patients with abnormal auditory brainstem response (ABR) results
Preparation
No special preparation is typically required. Patients should avoid exposure to loud noises for 24 hours prior to the test to ensure accurate results. It is also advisable to inform the clinician about any medications being taken.
Procedure Description
- The patient is seated comfortably in a soundproof booth.
- Headphones are placed over the patient’s ears.
- A pure tone at a specified frequency and volume is presented to the ear.
- The patient is asked to signal as long as they hear the tone.
- If the patient reports that the tone fades or stops, the volume is slightly increased, and the test continues.
- This process is repeated until the tone can be heard for a continuous 60 seconds or a significant volume increase is reached.
Equipment used includes audiometers and headphones calibrated to deliver precise sound levels.
Duration
The test usually takes about 15-30 minutes.
Setting
The Tone Decay Test is typically performed in an audiology clinic or a specialized hearing center.
Personnel
- Audiologist
- Audiology technician (optional)
Risks and Complications
There are no significant risks or complications associated with the Tone Decay Test. It is a non-invasive and painless procedure.
Benefits
The test helps in accurately identifying issues related to auditory nerve function, thus aiding in timely diagnosis and treatment of potential auditory nerve disorders. Results are typically available immediately after the test.
Recovery
No recovery time is necessary for this non-invasive test. Patients can return to their daily activities immediately.
Alternatives
- Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) Test: Assesses the auditory nerve pathways.
- MRI: Helps in visualizing possible tumors or abnormalities in the brain and auditory pathways.
- Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) Test: Evaluates cochlear function.
Patient Experience
During the test, the patient might experience mild discomfort due to the repetitive tones. However, the test is generally well-tolerated, and no pain is associated with it. Audiologists ensure the patient is as comfortable as possible throughout the process.