Semin Neurol 2006; 26(3): 321-330
DOI: 10.1055/s-2006-945518
Copyright © 2006 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Nonorganic Hearing Loss

James Lin1 , Hinrich Staecker2
  • 1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland
  • 2Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Kansas, Kansas City, Kansas
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
22 June 2006 (online)

ABSTRACT

Nonorganic hearing loss is a decrease in hearing that is unexplained by anatomic or physiologic abnormalities, or both. The term is synonymous with functional hearing loss and pseudohypacusis. The demographics and potential etiologies of nonorganic hearing loss are described. History and physical findings that indicate a functional hearing loss are also discussed. A review of the anatomy and physiology of the auditory system is provided as a background for the discussed objective tests of hearing thresholds. Finally, conditions that may mimic functional hearing loss are described in detail.

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James LinM.D. 

Clinical Instructor, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Maryland

16 South Eutaw, Suite 500, Baltimore, MD 21201

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