otoacoustic emissions
Pronunciation: OH-toe-ah-KOO-stik ee-MISH-uns
Sounds produced by the inner ear that can be measured to assess cochlear function objectively.
Full Definition
Otoacoustic emissions (OAEs) are acoustic signals generated by the outer hair cells in the cochlea that can be recorded in the ear canal using sensitive microphones. These emissions provide objective evidence of normal cochlear function and are widely used in newborn hearing screenings and monitoring for ototoxicity. There are two main types: distortion product OAEs (DPOAEs) and transient evoked OAEs (TEOAEs). The presence of robust OAEs typically indicates normal hearing sensitivity up to about 30-40 dB HL.
Usage
Usage note: Abbreviated as OAEs after first use. Always use plural form when referring to the test results.
In Context
- "Otoacoustic emissions were present bilaterally, suggesting normal cochlear function." — Hearing screening report
- "Monitoring otoacoustic emissions helps detect early ototoxic effects from chemotherapy." — Ototoxicity protocol