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Alternative Names Return to top
Evoked auditory potentials; BAEP - brainstem auditory evoked potentials; Evoked response audiometryDefinition Return to top
Brainstem auditory evoked response (BAER) is a test to measure the brain wave activity that occurs in response to clicks or certain tones.
How the Test is Performed Return to top
You lie on a reclining chair or bed and remain still. Electrodes are placed on your scalp and on each earlobe. The earphones give off a brief click or tone. The electrodes pick up the brain's responses to these sounds and record them. You do not need to be awake for this test.
How to Prepare for the Test Return to top
You may be asked to wash your hair the night before the test.
How the Test Will Feel Return to top
There is little discomfort.
Why the Test is Performed Return to top
The test is done to help diagnose nervous system problems and hearing losses (especially in low birth weight newborns), and to assess neurological functions.
Normal Results Return to top
The normal range for auditory brain stem values will vary among patients and with the instruments used.
What Abnormal Results Mean Return to top
Abnormal test results may indicate a hearing loss, multiple sclerosis, or stroke.
Additional conditions under which the test may be performed:
This test may also be performed during surgery to decrease the risk of injury to the auditory nerve and the brain.
Risks Return to top
There are no risks.
Update Date: 10/20/2008 Updated by: Luc Jasmin, MD, PhD, Departments of Anatomy and Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
