Evaluation of Cognitive Function Using P300 Latency and Amplitude in Children with Profound Sensorineural Hearing Loss Using Hearing Aids: A Comparative Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: As hearing function is directly linked to language and communication abilities, hearing loss may negatively affect children’s cognitive development. Therefore, it is important that hearing-impaired children undergo cognitive function assessments to better understand how to alleviate this comorbidity. The P300 event-related potential measurement is a neurophysiological test increasingly used to objectively measure cognitive function. Aim: The aim of the study was to compare the latency and amplitude of P300 waves in children with profound sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) with hearing aids and normal-hearing children aged 7–15 years old. Methods: A comparative cross-sectional study involving 15 children with profound SNHL and 15 children with normal hearing was conducted. The latency and amplitude of P300 waves in these children in response to auditory and visual stimuli were recorded and analyzed. Results: The mean P300 wave latency in children with SNHL was slightly longer than that in children with normal hearing, albeit insignificant ( P = 0.578). Similarly, the amplitude of the P300 waves was not significantly smaller in children with SNHL ( P = 0.885). Conclusions: SNHL children with hearing aid habilitation have comparable P300 amplitude and latency compare to normal-hearing children.