degrees of hearing loss
A classification system categorising hearing sensitivity into ranges (e.g., mild, moderate, severe, profound) based on pure-tone average thresholds in dB HL, used to guide clinical decision-making and communication with patients.
Full Definition
The degrees of hearing loss classification provides a standardised framework for describing audiometric severity. The most commonly used scheme (e.g., per the British Society of Audiology) designates categories such as mild (21–40 dB HL), moderate (41–70 dB HL), severe (71–90 dB HL), and profound (91+ dB HL), though threshold values differ slightly across guidelines and countries. Editors must be alert to inconsistencies between the degree label used in text and the dB HL values cited, and should confirm which classification scheme a document is referencing. Hyphenate compound modifiers such as 'mild-to-moderate hearing loss' when used adjectivally.
Usage
Usage note: Always confirm which classification scheme applies (BSA, WHO, ASHA) before editing dB HL ranges. Hyphenate compound descriptors: 'moderate-to-severe', not 'moderate to severe' as a modifier before a noun.
In Context
- "According to BSA guidelines, a pure-tone average of 55 dB HL constitutes a moderate degree of hearing loss." — Audiological assessment report
- "The patient presented with a profound degree of hearing loss bilaterally, defined as thresholds exceeding 90 dB HL." — Cochlear implant referral letter