Basic Definition, Classification, and Characteristics of Hearing Loss

The role of auditory perception in the neural development of the brain is critical. Disorders of auditory function, from infancy to old age, significantly affect the cognitive and social activities of individuals. Advances in technology have made it increasingly possible to correct auditory function disorders. However, the success of the treatment process depends on the accurate and timely identification of the degree of hearing loss and possible pathological causes. Both objective and subjective tests of various types are used in audiological evaluations. As no single audiologic test can provide sufficient information to make a pathological diagnosis, a number of objective tests are used to provide reliable information on various aspects of the auditory process and the function of different regions of auditory pathways. Therefore, a comprehensive interpretation of the test results is essential for an accurate diagnosis.