The Interaural Intensity Difference as a Diagnostic Indicator

Abstract

A simple sound Iateralization task, based on interaural intensity differences, has been developed as a tool for diagnosing central auditory disorders. Simultaneous white noise bursts are presented di-chotically at an equal sensation level. The intensity is then raised in 1 dB steps in the test ear until the sound image is located at that ear. The non-verbal motor response can be carried out by children or by adults with language impairment. Patients who have only peripheral hearing problems respond the same as normal listeners whereas a large percentage of patients with cerebral disease or trauma give abnormal results for the ear contralateral to the lesion.