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. 2022 May;279(5):2303-2308.
doi: 10.1007/s00405-021-06923-1. Epub 2021 Jun 8.

The use of melatonin for auditory brainstem response audiometry in children with comorbidities

Caroline Struijk #  1   2 , Nicolien van der Poel #  3 , Isabel Blommaerts  3 , Tine Boiy  4 , Anouk Hofkens-Van Den Brandt  3 , Kaat Van Den Brande  3 , Olivier Vanderveken  3 , Hanne Vermeersch  3 , An Boudewyns  3
Affiliations

The use of melatonin for auditory brainstem response audiometry in children with comorbidities

Caroline Struijk et al. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2022 May.

Abstract

Purpose: In this study, the efficacy and feasibility of melatonin in young children with and without comorbidities, undergoing auditory brainstem response audiometry (ABR) was evaluated. The aim of this study was primarily to evaluate the use of melatonin for ABR investigations in children with comorbidities. Second, the efficacy of melatonin was evaluated based on several factors like sleep-onset latency, sleep duration, frequency of awakenings as well as adverse events.

Methods: Click-induced ABR tests were performed at the outpatient clinic between January, 2018 and August, 2020. Investigations were considered successful when binaural testing was completed. A dose of melatonin depending on age, 5 mg for children younger than 6 years and 10 mg if older than 6 years, was administered after placement of electrodes.

Results: 131 children were included in this study. 87% of all ABR investigations were performed successfully. Comorbidities such as neurodevelopmental disorders or developmental delays were present in 70% of all children. There was no significant difference in age (p = 0.36) or gender (p = 0.97) between the success and failed group. In addition, comorbidities were equally distributed between both groups. Mean sleep duration was 38 (SD 21) min and sleep-onset latency was 28 (SD 20) min No adverse events were documented.

Conclusion: Melatonin is effective for ABR examinations in infants and children with and without comorbidities. Furthermore, it allows for sequential testing in those at risk for progressive hearing loss. Clear instructions to caregivers and expertise of audiologists are a prerequisite for optimal outcomes.

Keywords: Brainstem-evoked response audiometry; Children; Hearing test; Infants; Melatonin.

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