From Early Music Audiometry to Tone Audiograms
This study is looking into a new way of testing hearing, especially for children who have conditions like autism or social communication difficulties. Standard hearing tests, called Visual Reinforcement Audiometry (VRA), often don't work well for these children, leading to delays in finding and treating hearing loss. This new test uses familiar music that is specially filtered into different sound ranges. We want to compare the results of this new music test with the usual hearing tests to make sure it's accurate and reliable. The goal is to develop a better and easier way to check hearing in children who currently struggle with existing methods, helping them get the support they need sooner.
At a glance
What is this study about?
When children are very young, or have conditions like autism or social communication problems, checking their hearing can be quite tricky. The standard hearing test for young children, called Visual Reinforcement Audiometry (VRA), often doesn't work as well for them. This can mean that hearing loss isn't discovered as quickly as it should be, which can unfortunately affect their speech and language development.
To try and make hearing tests easier and more successful for these children, doctors sometimes use familiar music. However, the way this music is used and filtered can vary a lot, and we don't fully know how these music-based tests compare to the standard, accurate hearing tests. That's why this study is so important. We've developed a new computer program that filters familiar music in a very precise and consistent way.
This study will help us understand exactly how someone's hearing using this new music test compares to their hearing using the usual, 'gold-standard' tests. By doing this, we can make sure the new music test is accurate and reliable. This research is a basic science study, meaning we're focusing on understanding the fundamental science behind the new test. If it proves to be accurate, it could eventually become a valuable tool for diagnosing hearing loss in children who currently struggle with existing testing methods.
Key takeaways
- A new music-based hearing test is being developed for children.
- It aims to help children with conditions like autism who struggle with current tests.
- The study compares the new test to standard hearing tests for accuracy.
- It's a basic science study, laying the groundwork for future clinical use.
- Participants must have stable hearing loss in both ears and be able to complete regular hearing tests.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for volunteers who are between 7 and 45 years old. You need to have hearing loss in both ears that has been stable, meaning it hasn't changed much over time. Your hearing loss should be at a certain level, generally moderate or worse in your better-hearing ear. Importantly, you must be able to complete standard hearing tests confidently and accurately.
We would not be able to include you if you are outside the age range (under 7 or over 45) or if your hearing is normal, or if you only have hearing loss in one ear. Also, if your hearing changes often, or if you have specific conditions like 'Auditory Processing Disorder' or 'Auditory Neuropathy', this study wouldn't be suitable for you. Finally, if you find it difficult to do a regular hearing test reliably, you wouldn't be eligible.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you between 7 and 45 years old?
- Do you have hearing loss that affects both ears and has been stable?
- Can you reliably complete a standard hearing test?
- Is your hearing loss at a certain level (not normal or only in one ear)?
What does participation involve?
This study is a 'non-interventional' one, which means you won't be given any new treatments or medications. Your participation will involve doing a series of hearing tests. This won't be new or unfamiliar tests, but rather comparing how you respond to our new music-based sounds against the sounds used in standard hearing tests like pure tones and narrow-band noise. The study will involve several visits and assessments to carefully measure your hearing thresholds using these different methods. The exact number of visits and the total duration aren't specified but will be clearly explained to you before you agree to take part.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (2)
- Guy's and St Thomas NHS Foundation TrustVerified postcodeLondon, United Kingdom
- CHEARLtdVerified postcodeRoyston, United Kingdom
Common questions
What is the main goal of this study?
The main goal is to check if a new music-based hearing test is accurate and comparable to standard hearing tests, especially for children who find those traditional tests difficult.
Who is this new test designed for?
It's mainly designed for children, especially those with autism or social communication difficulties, who often struggle with regular hearing tests.
Will I receive any new treatment in this study?
No, this study is 'non-interventional,' meaning you won't receive any new treatments or medications. It's focused solely on testing different ways to measure hearing.
Is this study only for children?
No, while the new test is mainly for children, this particular study includes adults between 7 and 45 years old to compare the new test with standard methods in people with hearing loss.
What happens if I decide to stop participating?
You are free to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.
How to find out more
Keiran D Joseph, MSc
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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