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Q1. What is a BERA test?
BERA stands for Brainstem Evoked Response Audiometry. It is also commonly called ABR, or Auditory Brainstem Response testing.
The test records the electrical responses generated by the auditory nerve and brainstem following sound stimulation. It helps assess the auditory pathway and estimate hearing sensitivity, particularly in people who cannot reliably complete conventional hearing tests.
Q2. Why is a BERA test performed?
BERA may be recommended for:
Newborns and infants who require further hearing assessment.
Children with speech delay or suspected hearing impairment.
Children who cannot cooperate with routine audiometry.
Patients with suspected auditory pathway disorders.
Further evaluation of certain hearing abnormalities identified through other tests.
The indication depends on the patient's clinical history and examination.
Q3. Is BERA the same as ABR?
Yes. BERA and ABR refer to essentially the same type of hearing assessment. BERA is a commonly used term in India, while ABR is widely used internationally.
Q4. Is a BERA test painful?
No. BERA is a non-invasive test and is not painful. Small electrodes are placed on the scalp and near the ears, and sounds are delivered through earphones or suitable inserts.
The electrodes record electrical responses; they do not deliver electric shocks.
Q5. At what age can BERA be performed?
BERA can be performed in newborns, infants, children, and adults when clinically indicated. It is particularly useful when a reliable behavioural hearing assessment is not possible.
Q6. Does a child need to sleep during BERA?
Reliable BERA recordings generally require the patient to remain very still and quiet. Natural sleep is often preferred for infants.
Some older children may require sedation if they cannot sleep naturally or remain still. Sedation is not necessary for every patient and must be considered according to the child's clinical needs and appropriate safety protocols.
Q7. How long does a BERA test take?
The test may take approximately 30–90 minutes, depending on the protocol, the patient's age, the need to assess both ears, and the quality of the recordings.
Additional time may be required if natural sleep or sedation is needed.
Q8. Is fasting required before BERA?
Fasting is not routinely necessary for an unsedated BERA test. However, if sedation or anaesthesia is planned, specific fasting instructions must be followed as directed by the treating team.
Never fast an infant unnecessarily without receiving instructions from the clinical team.
Q9. Can BERA detect hearing loss in newborns?
Yes. BERA/ABR can help assess hearing in newborns and infants. Automated ABR is also used in newborn hearing screening programmes.
A diagnostic ABR may be required when screening results are abnormal or when clinical concerns persist.
Q10. What is the difference between OAE and BERA?
OAE evaluates responses generated by the cochlea, whereas BERA/ABR records electrical activity along the auditory nerve and brainstem in response to sound.
The tests assess different aspects of the auditory system and may be used together. Neither test alone identifies every possible hearing disorder.
Q11. Can BERA diagnose all types of hearing loss?
No. BERA provides valuable information about auditory pathway responses and can help estimate hearing thresholds, but it does not detect every hearing disorder. Results may need to be interpreted alongside OAE, tympanometry, behavioural audiometry, and clinical examination.
Q12. Does an abnormal BERA result mean permanent hearing loss?
Not necessarily. The result must be interpreted in the context of the test protocol, the child's age, middle-ear status, and other clinical findings. Further assessment may be needed before determining the type, degree, and likely persistence of hearing loss.
Q13. Is BERA recommended for every child with speech delay?
Not necessarily. Children with speech delay need an appropriate hearing assessment, but the choice between behavioural audiometry, OAE, BERA/ABR, or a combination depends on age, cooperation, risk factors, and previous test results.
Q14. Where can I get a BERA test in Vijay Nagar, Delhi?
Paartha Diagnostic Centre, E21, Vijay Nagar, Delhi 110009, can be contacted to enquire about BERA/ABR testing and appointment availability. Please confirm that diagnostic BERA is currently available at the centre before visiting. Call 01141022755
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