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BAER - brainstem auditory evoked response

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Brain
Brain
Brain wave monitor
Brain wave monitor

Alternative Names    Return to top

Evoked auditory potentials; BAEP - brainstem auditory evoked potentials; Evoked response audiometry

Definition    Return to top

Brainstem auditory evoked response (BAER) is a test to measure the brain wave activity that occurs in response to clicks or certain tones.

How the Test is Performed    Return to top

You lie on a reclining chair or bed and remain still. Electrodes are placed on your scalp and on each earlobe. The earphones give off a brief click or tone. The electrodes pick up the brain's responses to these sounds and record them. You do not need to be awake for this test.

How to Prepare for the Test    Return to top

You may be asked to wash your hair the night before the test.

How the Test Will Feel    Return to top

There is little discomfort.

Why the Test is Performed    Return to top

The test is done to help diagnose nervous system problems and hearing losses (especially in low birth weight newborns), and to assess neurological functions.

Normal Results    Return to top

The normal range for auditory brain stem values will vary among patients and with the instruments used.

What Abnormal Results Mean    Return to top

Abnormal test results may indicate a hearing loss, multiple sclerosis, or stroke.

Additional conditions under which the test may be performed:

This test may also be performed during surgery to decrease the risk of injury to the auditory nerve and the brain.

Risks    Return to top

There are no risks.

Update Date: 10/20/2008

Updated by: Luc Jasmin, MD, PhD, Departments of Anatomy and Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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