RESUMO
Background: The sensorineural hearing loss incidence ranges from 1 to 3 per 1.000 live births in term healthy neonates, and 2-4 per 100 in high-risk infants, a 10-fold increase
Objective: To estimate the incidence of SNHL among newborns in NICU at Al Monira Hospital, Cairo, Egypt; The neonates in the study were 710 [401Males and 309 Females] and had birth weight ranging from 680 to 5500 gm and the mean gestational age was 35.8+/-3 weeks. All the cases were screened for hearing loss using the transient evoked otoacoustic emission device, followed by a second stage screninf for those who failed and cases given a refer then undergo an Atomated Aditory Brainstem Response test
Results: In the studied cases, 76.7% had hyperbilirubinemia, 8.73% were of low birth weight [<1500 g], and 15.5% were on mechanical ventilation. In the fist screening phase, 80% were given a Pass response and 20% were given a Refer response for the right ear. In the second screening phase, 91% were given a Pass, 9% were given a Refer
Conclusion: A comprehensive intervention and mangement program must be an integral part of screening programs in the postnatal period. Awarenedd about the value of hearing screening is important. Further assessment of high prevalence of hyperbilirubinemia are needed