Improving Sensitivity of the Digits-In-Noise Test Using Antiphasic Stimuli.
Karina C De Sousa, De Wet Swanepoel, David R Moore and 2 others
PMID 31425362WHAT IT FOUND
Antiphasic digit presentation in a smartphone hearing screen detects hearing loss better than standard methods.
It identifies unilateral, asymmetric, and conductive losses that standard tests miss. This improves screening sensitivity for diverse hearing issues without increasing test time.
Key findings
01Antiphasic testing showed higher sensitivity and specificity for detecting hearing loss compared to standard diotic testing.
02Antiphasic test results correlated strongly with the poorer ear's hearing threshold, unlike diotic tests which often reflect the better ear.
03The antiphasic method successfully detected conductive hearing loss, which standard diotic tests frequently miss.
STILL TO COME
How it was doneWhat they foundWhat it means for SLPs
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What it does not show
The study was cross-sectional and did not test the antiphasic method in children, despite potential applications for pediatric screening. The test cannot differentiate between types of hearing loss (e.g., conductive vs. sensorineural) or symmetry; positive results require further diagnostic testing. A training effect was observed, with scores improving slightly after the initial training list, which must be accounted for in clinical administration.
Declared interests
The authors declared no conflicts of interest.
The easy way to misread this
Do not interpret a failed antiphasic screen as a diagnosis. The test identifies hearing loss but cannot determine the type (conductive vs. sensorineural) or symmetry. Positive results require referral for comprehensive audiological evaluation.