Distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAE) allow a direct functional testing of outer hair cells. As a possible cause of tinnitus, a dysfunction of the efferent auditory system and an associated hypermotility of outer hair cells are discussed. The aim of this study was the investigation of the etiology of tinnitus by fine structure and contralateral suppression of DPOAE. Concerning fine structure and efferent reflex strength, no significant difference between tinnitus group and control group could be shown. However, in fine structure dips, a significant DPOAE-enhancement within the tinnitus group was detected, suggesting a reduced function of the efferent auditory system especially in these regions of fine structur, indicating a possible pathological correlate of tinnitus.
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Distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAE) allow a direct functional testing of outer hair cells. As a possible cause of tinnitus, a dysfunction of the efferent auditory system and an associated hypermotility of outer hair cells are discussed. The aim of this study was the investigation of the etiology of tinnitus by fine structure and contralateral suppression of DPOAE. Concerning fine structure and efferent reflex strength, no significant difference between tinnitus group and control gro...
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