Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT) is based on the neurophysiological model by Jastreboff. The key principle underlying TRT is:
- A Habituation to the tinnitus signal through counseling and sound therapy to break the negative feedback loop ✓
- B Complete masking of tinnitus with broadband white noise
- C Surgical interruption of the auditory pathway at the cochlea
- D Suppression of spontaneous otoacoustic emissions with antidepressants
Correct answer: A. Habituation to the tinnitus signal through counseling and sound therapy to break the negative feedback loop
Explanation
Jastreboff's neurophysiological model posits that tinnitus persists because of abnormal connections between the auditory cortex, limbic system (emotional), and autonomic nervous system. TRT aims to reclassify tinnitus as a neutral signal through intensive directive counseling (explaining the neural model) combined with low-level broadband sound therapy that promotes habituation (not masking). Over 12–18 months, the limbic/autonomic response is extinguished. This is distinct from simple masking, which provides relief only during use.
Reference: Dhingra Diseases of Ear, Nose and Throat, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.