The central auditory nervous system is a complex network that transmits sound from both ears to the auditory cortex in the brain.
Central auditory processing is the ability of the central auditory system to transfer information from the hearing nerve to the auditory cortex. Some of the mechanisms of the central auditory processing (CAP) system include sound localization, discrimination of differences between sounds and words, detection of the timing gaps or intervals between sounds and the ability to hear in background noise.
A central auditory processing disorder occurs when the central auditory nervous system cannot detect or process this information normally.
The purpose of central auditory testing is to determine if a central auditory processing disorder exists and to what degree.
CAP testing includes a thorough case history of a patient's auditory problems and deficits, standard audiologic test procedures and specialized test procedures, which are specifically designed to diagnose a central auditory processing disorder.
In many instances no further testing is necessary. However, further testing at a later time and date may be necessary depending on the outcome or results of the initial testing.
The test will take place in a sound proof booth. You will listen to recorded test materials through headphones and respond by repeating the words and sentences you hear. Your audiologist will direct and assist you throughout the test procedure.
Your audiologist will analyze the results and contact you with the test results within a few days of the test procedure. Your audiologist at that time will inform you on whether or not further testing is necessary.