What is OAE Testing?
Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) are sounds generated by the outer hair cells of the cochlea in response to acoustic stimulation. When the cochlea is functioning normally, these emissions can be detected with a sensitive microphone placed in the ear canal.
OAE testing is one of the most widely used tools for newborn hearing screening because it is fast, objective, and requires no active participation from the patient. A baby can be tested while sleeping.
There are two main types: TEOAE (Transient Evoked OAE) and DPOAE (Distortion Product OAE). Both are available at Audigo Clinic.
Benefits of OAE Testing
Quick — results in under 5 minutes
Completely non-invasive and painless
Objective — no patient response required
Ideal for newborn hearing screening
Detects cochlear (outer hair cell) damage early
Monitors effects of ototoxic medications