Correlation between specific rubella immunoglobulin G (Ig G) and response evoked brainstem audiometry examination on confirmed congenital rubella syndrome (CRS) patients

Abstract

Congenital rubella syndrome (CRS) is a health problem that can cause deaf child. Its diagnosis is based on clinical manifestation, specific rubella Immunoglobulin M (IgM) and IgG examination. The aim of this study was to evaluate the correlation between the specific rubella IgG level and the brainstem evoked response audiometry wave V. This was a cross sectional study involving congenital rubella syndrome (CRS) child patients at Dr. Sardjito General Hospital, Yogyakarta from 2011 to December 2016. The inclusion criteria were 1) aged less than 24 months; 2) wave V of brainstem evoked response audiometry examination has been identified. The exclusion criteria were 1) the patient’s parents refused to participate and 2) incomplete data. Based on α: 5%, β: 20% and coefficient correlation estimation 0.04, minimal sample size were 47 subjects. All of subjects was underwent specific rubella IgG examination. Statistical analysis by using Spearman`s correlation test. Wave V at the level <25 dB were found in 2 patients (4.3%), 26-40 dB results in 3 (6.4%) patients, 41-60 dB in 1 (2.1%) patient, 61-80dB was found in 9 (19.1%) patients and > 81 db in 32 (68.1%) patients. A significant positive linear correlation between IgG levels (4- 400 IU/mL) and wave V of brainstem evoked response audiometry was reported (p<0.05; r = 0.432). In conclusion, there is a positive correlation between specific rubella IgG level and brainstem evoked response audiometry test results.