brainstem auditory evoked response
Also written as: BAER — brainstem auditory evoked response
A test measuring electrical activity along the auditory pathway from ear to brainstem.
Full Definition
Brainstem auditory evoked response (BAER) is an electrophysiological test that evaluates the integrity of the auditory pathway from the cochlea through the brainstem. The test involves presenting click stimuli to the ear while recording electrical responses from electrodes placed on the scalp and earlobes. BAER produces a series of waves (I-VII) that correspond to different anatomical structures along the auditory pathway. This test is valuable for assessing hearing threshold, detecting retrocochlear pathology, and evaluating brainstem function, particularly in unconscious patients.
Usage
Usage note: BAER and ABR are used interchangeably in clinical practice.
In Context
- "BAER testing showed prolonged interpeak latencies consistent with brainstem dysfunction." — Neurological assessment
- "The brainstem auditory evoked response was absent bilaterally, indicating severe auditory pathway damage." — Critical care report