Presbycusis
Pronunciation: PREZ-bee-KYOO-sis
Age-related sensorineural hearing loss that occurs gradually as a result of cumulative cochlear degeneration over a lifetime.
Full Definition
Presbycusis (sometimes spelled 'presbyacusis') is the most common cause of hearing loss in adults over 60 and is characterised by a symmetric, bilateral high-frequency sensorineural loss that progresses slowly. The underlying pathology includes loss of cochlear hair cells, spiral ganglion neurons, and strial atrophy. Aural rehabilitation for individuals with presbycusis typically focuses on hearing-aid fitting, communication strategies, and psychosocial counselling for both the individual and their family. Editors should note that 'presbycusis' (without the 'a') is the preferred spelling in American English clinical literature, while 'presbyacusis' appears in some British and international publications.
Usage
Usage note: Preferred American English spelling is 'presbycusis' (without 'a'). 'Presbyacusis' is used in British and some international sources. Editors should follow the publication's regional style and apply consistently throughout the document.
In Context
- "Presbycusis was the primary aetiology in 62% of the aural rehabilitation caseload at the senior center." — Service evaluation report
- "The manuscript used both 'presbycusis' and 'presbyacusis'; standardize to 'presbycusis' per the journal's American English style." — Copy-editing note