CPT® Code 92587

Distortion product evoked otoacoustic emissions; limited evaluation (to confirm the presence or absence of hearing disorder, 3-6 frequencies) or transient evoked otoacoustic emissions, with interpretation and report

Otoacoustic emission (OAE) tests are specialized auditory assessments designed to evaluate the functional status of the cochlea, particularly focusing on the health and performance of the hair cells within this critical structure of the inner ear. These tests are essential for identifying potential hearing loss, especially in populations such as neonates, infants, or individuals with developmental disabilities, where traditional behavioral responses to sound may not be feasible. The cochlea, in addition to its role in hearing, generates low-intensity sounds known as otoacoustic emissions, which are thought to result from the dynamic movements of the outer hair cells as they respond to auditory stimuli. The CPT® Code 92587 specifically refers to a limited evaluation of these emissions, utilizing either distortion product evoked otoacoustic emissions (DPEOAEs) or transient evoked otoacoustic emissions (TEOAEs) to ascertain the presence or absence of a hearing disorder. This evaluation is characterized by the application of a stimulus through a low-noise microphone that captures the otoacoustic emissions produced by the cochlea. In the case of DPEOAEs, the assessment involves recording emissions in response to multiple tones across a range of frequencies and intensities, specifically focusing on 3-6 frequencies to confirm cochlear function. Alternatively, TEOAEs are recorded in response to brief acoustic stimuli, such as clicks or tone bursts, providing another method to evaluate cochlear health. The procedure requires the placement of a microphone probe in the external ear canal, and the test is conducted on both ears to ensure comprehensive assessment. Following the evaluation, a physician interprets the results and generates a detailed report outlining the findings, which is crucial for further clinical decision-making.