Evoked Potentials
Auditory Evoked Potential (AEP) testing is used to determine if certain components of the hearing and balance systems are functioning properly. Evoked potentials measure the time necessary for the nerves to respond to sound and electrical stimulus. They are used to rule out disease or damage to the auditory (hearing), vestibular (balance) or central nervous system, and to measure the health of the hearing nerve pathway. An evoked potential allows the audiologist to determine if there is an “obstruction” along the pathways leading to the brain. Obstructions could include degeneration of the nerve, tumors or infections.