What does an otoacoustic emission test evaluate?

An otoacoustic emission (OAE) test evaluates cochlear function, specifically the responsiveness and overall health of the outer hair cells in the cochlea. When sound waves enter the inner ear, the outer hair cells vibrate and can produce sound waves in response, which are termed otoacoustic emissions.

This test is particularly useful for assessing hearing in infants and young children, as it is non-invasive and does not require a behavioral response. By measuring the presence and quality of these emissions, clinicians can determine whether the cochlea is functioning properly. Therefore, a positive response indicates normal cochlear function, while an absence of emissions may suggest hearing loss or dysfunction within the cochlea.

The other options relate to different aspects of auditory function. Evaluating auditory nerve integrity focuses on the nerve pathways that transmit sound signals to the brain, while middle ear mobility pertains to the function and movement of the ossicles and the tympanic membrane (ear drum). Speech comprehension, on the other hand, relates to higher-level processing of auditory information, which is not encompassed by the OAE test.