Brainstem auditory evoked potential with speech and click stimuli in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

Childhood autism concerns a highly complex framework that requires multidisciplinary approaches. The symptoms are quite variable in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and may vary the type and degree of involvement, but they are grouped together because they have in common an early discontinuation of socialization processes. This condition is by its nature a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects the brain mechanisms of basic and early sociability. Although the theme is surrounded by discussions and there are conceptual and clinical controversies, it is possible to observe a consensus that is independent of the theoretical line or therapeutic practice, which is the occurrence of communication and language disorder. It is known that for the acquisition and proper development of speech and language, the integrity of the peripheral and central auditory systems is essential. Audiological tests are used to identify possible hearing problems which can interfere in the individual communication performance. Objectives audiological tests are important tools to assess people with ASD because these tests do not depend on the direct response of the individual. Speech stimuli can be used to assess how individuals with ASD decode the complex stimulus. Children with this disorder have an atypical responsiveness to stimuli as a prominent, universal and poorly understood symptom. Such individuals may have perception, attention and memory disorders. Knowing this aspects, it becomes necessary to investigate the audiory integrity of this population, by objective tests to provide accurate diagnosis and a more effective intervention. The aim of this study is to characterize the results of the brainstem auditory evoked potential (BAEP), with speech and click stimuli in individuals with ASD and compare them to individuals with typical development.