Auditory Dysfunction Beyond the 8th Nerve: Understanding Central Auditory Processing Disorders

Central auditory processing disorder (CAPD) refers to a deficit in the neural processing of auditory stimuli that can affect listening, language, and learning. Because CAPD manifests behavioral symptoms similar to those exhibited by listeners with peripheral hearing loss, it is important that the audiologist be prepared to “go beyond the 8th nerve” in the assessment process to evaluate central auditory skill sets and provide intervention as needed. Differential diagnosis of these disorders is accomplished using behavioral and electrophysiological tests that examine the array of auditory skills and integrity of the system from brainstem through the cortex. Test results are used to develop effective deficit-specific intervention plans designed to reduce/resolve the deficit and minimize the disorder's affect on the listener's life.