BERA (Brain Evoked Response Audiometry)
An objective electrophysiological diagnostic test evaluating auditory nerve transmission and brainstem pathway integrity in newborns, infants, and non-verbal adults.
What is BERA (Brain Evoked Response Audiometry)?
BERA, or Brain Evoked Response Audiometry, is a non-invasive diagnostic test that measures the brain’s electrical activity in response to sound stimuli. It is especially useful in assessing hearing in newborns, young children, and individuals who are unable to respond to conventional hearing tests.
By placing small electrodes on the scalp, the test records how sound signals travel along the auditory nerve to the brainstem. BERA helps detect hearing loss, neurological issues, and auditory pathway disorders with precision. It is safe, painless, and plays a crucial role in early hearing detection and intervention.
BERA, or Brain Evoked Response Audiometry, is an advanced, objective hearing test that evaluates how sound signals travel from the ear through the auditory nerve to the brainstem. This test is especially beneficial for individuals who cannot provide reliable behavioral responses to traditional hearing tests — such as newborns, infants, individuals with developmental delays, or unconscious patients.
Key Benefits of BERA Testing
Early Diagnosis in Infants & Neonates
It is one of the most effective methods to identify hearing impairment in newborns and babies, allowing for timely clinical and habilitative intervention before critical speech milestones.
Objective and 100% Reliable
No active verbal or motor response is required from the patient, making it suitable for infants during natural sleep, sedated patients, or individuals with cognitive impairments.
Neurological Pathway Insight
It helps evaluate retrocochlear and neurological pathologies, such as acoustic neuroma (vestibular schwannoma), auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder (ANSD), and brainstem lesions.
Non-Invasive & Completely Painless
Surface sticker electrodes rest lightly on the forehead and mastoid bones. The procedure is entirely safe, with no radiation, discomfort, or risks involved.