Auditory Dysfunction Beyond the 8th Nerve: Understanding Central Auditory Processing Disorders

Central auditory processing disorder (CAPD) refers to a deficit in the neural processing of
auditory stimuli that can affect listening, language, and learning. Because CAPD manifests
behavioral symptoms similar to those exhibited by listeners with peripheral hearing loss, it
is important that the audiologist be prepared to “go beyond the 8th nerve” in the assessment
process to evaluate central auditory skill sets and provide intervention as needed. Differential
diagnosis of these disorders is accomplished using behavioral and electrophysiological tests
that examine the array of auditory skills and integrity of the system from brainstem through
the cortex. Test results are used to develop effective deficit-specific intervention plans
designed to reduce/resolve the deficit and minimize the disorder’s affect on the listener’s life.