Late onset hearing loss in very low birth weight infants.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the impact of a referral protocol for very low birth weight (VLBW) infants and document the incidence rate of late onset hearing loss.

STUDY

DESIGN

Retrospective study (2003-2015) of post-discharge hearing outcomes and risk factors in the VLBW infant population, before and after the institution of a standardized follow-up program. Risk factors were compared between cases and matched controls.

RESULTS

Late onset hearing loss detection increased from 2.2 per 100 VLBW infants to 6.9 per 100 post standardization. The follow-up compliance rate nearly doubled. The age at diagnosis decreased from 31 to 12 months postnatal age. The detection of conductive loss increased four-fold, while sensorineural hearing loss remained unchanged.

CONCLUSION

A significant proportion late onset hearing loss in VLBW infants is conductive, which can negatively impact speech and language development. A standardized process is essential for early detection and optimal outcomes.