Auditory brainstem response (ABR) testing records far-field potentials from the auditory pathway. Wave V on ABR corresponds to which anatomical generator?

• A Cochlear nerve action potential
• B Cochlear nucleus
• C Superior olivary complex
• D Inferior colliculus (lateral lemniscus/inferior colliculus junction) ✓

Explanation

ABR waves correspond to sequential auditory pathway generators: Wave I = auditory nerve, Wave II = cochlear nucleus, Wave III = superior olivary complex, Wave IV = lateral lemniscus, Wave V = inferior colliculus (or the junction between lateral lemniscus and inferior colliculus). Wave V is the most robust and clinically important wave used to estimate hearing thresholds in infants and screen for retrocochlear pathology.

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.