What does the ABR test measure?

The Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) test is designed to measure the neurological response to sound stimuli. Specifically, it evaluates how the auditory nerve and brainstem respond to auditory signals. During the test, sound stimuli are presented, and electrodes placed on the scalp and earlobes record the electrical activity in response to these sounds. The results can help diagnose various auditory system pathologies, such as auditory neuropathy or central auditory processing disorders, by identifying the integrity of the neural pathways involved in hearing.

In contrast, while auditory sensitivity is an important aspect of hearing evaluated through other tests like pure-tone audiometry, it is not the primary focus of the ABR. Hearing loss progression is typically assessed using different methodologies, such as regular audiometric testing and patient symptom reporting. Finally, assessors of balance and coordination would not typically utilize the ABR since it primarily centers around auditory response rather than vestibular functions. Thus, the correct answer highlights the crucial role of neurological response to sound as measured by the ABR test.