How is Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Diagnosed?

Auditory Processing Disorder (APD), also known as Central Auditory Processing Disorder (CAPD), can be challenging to diagnose due to the unique nature of its symptoms. The process often requires specialized testing and evaluation by a trained professional. In this article, we will explore the various diagnostic methods used to identify APD, drawing from real-world experiences and recommended medical approaches.

Real-World Experiences

One individual shares their personal journey in obtaining an APD diagnosis for their child. Recognizing the challenges, they sought out a specialized audiologist in Missouri, who is the sole provider of APD diagnosis in the state. This process involved extensive testing, which took several hours to complete. The diagnostic journey highlighted the importance of ensuring the correct type of testing is performed, as not all audiologists are capable of identifying APD.

Diagnostic Methods

Accurate diagnosis of APD involves a comprehensive evaluation that can include the following methods:

Objective Auditory Evaluations

Otomotor Activities of Early Neural Synchrony (OAE): This involves measuring the hearing threshold and observing the response of the auditory system to sound.

Perceptual Auditory Tests: Sound Perception Test, Air-Bone and Pitch: These tests assess the ability to perceive and differentiate sounds, including air conduction (hearing through the air) and bone conduction (hearing through vibrations).

Processing Speed Assessments

Auditory Digit Span Test: This measures the ability to remember and process auditory information.

Sensory Motor Screen: This evaluates the synchronization between sensory input and motor response.

By conducting these tests, healthcare professionals can differentiate between true APD and other auditory or visual processing issues, ensuring an accurate diagnosis. It is crucial to identify whether the root cause is purely auditory processing, related to vision, or even cognitive abilities such as IQ.

Identification and Symptoms

People with APD often exhibit specific symptoms such as:

Difficulty understanding speech in noisy environments: This indicates that they may struggle to identify and processsounds when there is background noise.

Trouble distinguishing similar sounds: This can manifest in confusion between similar words or sounds, leading to misunderstandings.

Difficulty following directions: Instructions may be confusing or incompletely understood, impacting academic and daily life.

The diagnostic process may begin with a detailed interview and observation, followed by specific auditory tests, such as wearing headphones and following auditory instructions. If the individual struggles with these tasks, it may indicate the presence of APD.

It is important for parents and educators to recognize these symptoms and advocate for appropriate assessments and interventions to support individuals with APD. Seeking out a trained audiologist who specializes in APD is a critical step in ensuring accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.