Pure Tone Audiometry

Pure Tone Audiometry (PTA) is a diagnostic hearing test that assesses a person's ability to hear different pitches or frequencies of sounds. It is one of the most common tests used by audiologists to evaluate a patient's hearing sensitivity and detect any hearing loss.

During the test, the patient sits in a soundproof booth and wears headphones or earplugs. The audiologist presents a series of pure tones (single-frequency sounds) at various intensity levels to each ear separately. The patient's task is to indicate when they hear a sound by pressing a button or raising their hand.

The results of the test are plotted on an audiogram, a graph that shows the softest sounds the patient can hear at different frequencies. This audiogram provides valuable information about the type, degree, and configuration of hearing loss, helping the audiologist to determine the best course of action, such as recommending hearing aids, further medical evaluation, or other appropriate interventions.

Pure Tone Audiometry is an essential tool in diagnosing hearing loss, monitoring changes in hearing abilities, and fitting hearing aids to provide the best possible hearing rehabilitation for individuals with hearing impairments.