Hearing Loss in Children

• Based on consensus statement of strong research evidence, UNHS should be performed for all newborns before 1 month of age and abnormal test results confirmed by full audiology evaluation by 3 months of age. • Based on some research evidence, children enrolled in EHDI programs perform significantly better than their later-detected peers on tests of vocabulary skills and intellectual development, to the point of approaching children whose auditory capacity is normal. • Based on strong research evidence, the most important risk factors for SNHL in the first 28 days after birth are low Apgar scores, positive family history, in utero infections, hyperbilirubinemia at levels requiring exchange transfusion, respiratory distress, prolonged mechanical ventilation, and symptoms indicative of syndromic hearing loss. • Based on strong research evidence, genetic factors are a significant cause of hearing loss, accounting for 80% of congenital SNHL and 30% to 50% of all childhood SNHL. The most common form of genetic hearing loss involves mutations in the gene encoding the connexin 26 (Cx26) protein. • Based on strong research evidence, the most common cause of CHL in children is OME. Based on consensus statement, referral to an ear, nose, and throat specialist should be considered for all children who have persistent effusion and hearing loss beyond 3 months. • Based on strong research evidence, only 50% of children who have hearing loss can be identified by the use of risk indicators. Based on consensus statement, all children should have periodic objective assessments of their hearing. Copyright © 2009 by the American Academy of Pediatrics. All rights reserved.