Influence of contralateral stimulation by two-tone complexes, narrow-band and broad-band noise signals on the 2f1-f2 distortion product otoacoustic emission levels in humans

Acta Otolaryngol. 2002 Sep;122(6):613-9. doi: 10.1080/000164802320396286.

Abstract

In order to test the frequency specificity of the efferent suppressive effect on otoacoustic emissions, changes in the 2f1-f2 distortion product otoacoustic emission (DPOAE) levels induced by contralateral stimuli of different spectra were measured in 10 normally hearing adults. Three types of contralateral stimuli were used: (i) a set of 6 pairs of pure tones with the same frequencies as used for DPOAE stimulation; (ii) 6 narrow-band noise signals with cut-off frequencies equal to the frequencies of the primary tones used for DPOAE stimulation; and (iii) broad-band noise with a bandwidth of 840-6,000 Hz. A small suppressive effect was observed mainly in the mid-frequency region. Broad-band noise was more effective at suppressing DPOAEs than narrow-band noises and two-tone complexes. Occasionally, small enhancements in DPOAE amplitudes were observed. Based on the results of this study, it is concluded that DPOAE changes induced by contralateral stimuli are not frequency-specific, and are too small to have routine clinical value.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Acoustic Stimulation / methods*
  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Auditory Pathways / physiology
  • Cochlear Nerve / physiology
  • Efferent Pathways / physiology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Neural Inhibition
  • Olivary Nucleus / physiology
  • Otoacoustic Emissions, Spontaneous / physiology*