Accuracy and Pitfalls in the Smartphone-Based Audiometry Examination.

INTRODUCTION

Approximately 466 million people suffer from hearing loss worldwide, with Indonesia ranking fourth in Southeast Asia. However, conventional pure-tone audiometry is not yet available in many areas because of its high cost. Numerous available smartphone-based audiometry applications are potential alternative screening tools for hearing loss, especially in Indonesia. This study examined the findings on the validation of smartphone-based audiometry applications to assess hearing functions available in Indonesia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Based on the established eligibility criteria, this study was conducted by browsing the relevant literature validating smartphone-based audiometry applications in Indonesia. Relevant study data, such as the author, year, location, implementation procedures, and outcomes, were extracted and summarized.

RESULTS

This systematic review found 17 relevant and eligible publications. Of the six applications tested, 5 were found to have good validity, such as uHear, Audiogram Mobile, AudCal, Hearing Test e-audiologia, and Wulira. All smartphone-based audiometry was tested only for the air conduction threshold and was influenced by several factors.

CONCLUSION

Because smartphone-based audiometry is inexpensive, simple, and more accessible than conventional audiometric testing, it can be useful as a screening modality or alternative approach to assess hearing function. Unfortunately, smartphone-based audiometry cannot replace conventional audiometry in diagnosing hearing impairment.