We used the latency of the P1 cortical auditory-evoked potential (CAEP) as a biomarker
for the development of central auditory pathways in three children who received intervention
through hearing aids and/or cochlear implants. Our goal was to examine the clinical
feasibility of using the latency of the P1 CAEP as an objective tool to evaluate whether
acoustic amplification for hearing-impaired children has provided sufficient stimulation
for normal development of central auditory pathways. If clinicians have such a marker,
then they can more confidently make a decision about whether to provide a child with
a cochlear implant following an appropriate hearing-aid trial. Using the same marker,
clinicians will also be able to monitor the maturation of central auditory pathways
once electrical stimulation is initiated.
Key Words
Amplification - biomarker - cochlear implant - cortical auditory evoked potential
- hearing aid - hearing impairment - objective measure - P1 - plasticity
