Lack of a coherent theory limits the diagnostic and prognostic value of the (central) auditory processing disorder: a theoretical and clinical perspective. Issue 5 (18th October 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cacace, Anthony T.; Enayati, Zakaria
• Is Part Of: Current opinion in otolaryngology & head and neck surgery. Volume 30:Issue 5(2022)
• Page Start: 326
• Page End: 331
• Publication Date: 2022-10-18
• Subjects: modality specificity -- multimodal testing -- supramodal dysfunctions; Otolaryngology -- Periodicals; Neck -- Surgery -- Periodicals; Head -- Surgery -- Periodicals; 617.51
• DOI: 10.1097/MOO.0000000000000833
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1068-9508

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose of review: To consider pertinent issues towards developing a coherent theory of the auditory processing disorder (APD). By identifying the conceptual and methodological shortcomings that have thwarted development in this area for decades, we propose solutions to achieve a veridical endpoint to advance the field. Recent findings: Concerted efforts in the theoretical, experimental, and clinical domains have focused on validating the APD by demonstrating the " modality specificity " of the deficit. The importance of this conceptual framework is the delineation of auditory-perceptual dysfunctions from more generalized " supra modal" deficits, like those related to attention, memory, and language. Because contemporary schemata have limited the assessment of APD to auditory tasks alone ( unimodal testing), functional dissociations cannot be established, indeterminate diagnoses are problematic, and progress remains unduly constrained. The use of matched tasks in multiple sensory modalities is advocated as a diagnostic imperative to remedy this deficiency. Summary: Themes covered by this review include the need to develop a coherent theory of APD, to identify and limit factors which confound a valid diagnosis, and to validate the diagnosis by demonstrating the " modality specificity " of the deficit. Without an obligatory theoretical designation, the APD will remain as an obscure and controversial entity, limited to indeterminate test results and misdiagnoses.