The Acoustic Reflex in Eighth Nerve Disorders

Acoustic reflex data were analyzed in 30 patients with surgically confirmed retrocochlear disorder, primarily acoustic neurilemoma. Results confirm the reality of both elevated reflex thresholds and reflex decay as diagnostic signs of retrocochlear disorder. The acoustic reflex was present and normal in 7 patients, present and abnormal in 4 patients, but absent at all test frequencies in 19 of the 30 patients. Results support the diagnostic value of the acoustic reflex test in the evaluation of suspected eighth nerve disorders.