ASSR
Also written as: ASSR — Auditory Steady-State Response
An objective electrophysiological test using continuous, modulated tones to estimate frequency-specific hearing thresholds, particularly in infants and non-responsive patients.
Full Definition
The Auditory Steady-State Response (ASSR) is an evoked potential elicited by amplitude- and/or frequency-modulated tones, with responses detected statistically rather than by visual waveform inspection. Unlike the ABR, ASSR provides frequency-specific threshold estimates across the audiometric range (500 Hz–4000 Hz), making it particularly useful for fitting paediatric hearing aids before behavioural thresholds are obtainable. Editors should ensure dB eHL (estimated Hearing Level) is used when reporting ASSR thresholds, as ASSR thresholds require correction to be compared with behavioural audiometric thresholds. The term is often incorrectly written as 'Auditory Steady State Response' without a hyphen; house style should be confirmed.
Usage
Usage note: Expand on first use. ASSR thresholds should be expressed in dB eHL, not dB HL, unless correction norms have been applied. Do not conflate with ABR.
In Context
- "ASSR testing was performed at 500, 1000, 2000, and 4000 Hz to provide frequency-specific threshold estimates for hearing aid fitting." — Paediatric audiology report
- "The audiologist noted that ASSR thresholds expressed in dB eHL required correction before comparison with the aided audiogram." — Clinical review document