Neonatal Hearing Loss Risk Factors and miRNA Biomarkers Identified Through AABR Screening

Abstract

Objective: To determine the prevalence of hearing impairment in neonates and identify associated risk factors through auditory brainstem response (ABR) screening. Study Design: A prospective observational longitudinal study was conducted involving 158 infants, with Automated Auditory Brainstem Response (AABR) evaluations performed by 6 months of age. Setting: The study was undertaken in a hospital-based neonatal care unit. Methods: Infants with significant hearing loss in one or both ears were referred for further assessment and rehabilitation. The relationship between microRNAs (MiRNAs) and congenital hearing loss was confirmed through differential expression levels in newborns. Results: Of the 158 infants, 8 showed abnormal AABR results. Univariable analysis identified 5 potential risk factors associated with hearing deterioration, with multivariable analysis pinpointing the number of maternal embryos, cytomegalovirus, and miR-431 as independently associated with hearing loss at 6 months (P = 0.004). Conclusion: Early detection of hearing loss is vital for child development. Given the high incidence of hearing impairment in the study population, universal newborn hearing screening is essential. Assessment of miRNAs expression levels, maternal embryo count, and prenatal infections should be integrated into screening protocols for infants admitted for over 24 hours to prevent oversight of neural hearing loss cases.