In an auditory brainstem response (ABR) recording, wave V threshold in a cooperative adult is the gold standard for threshold estimation in the clinical setting. The neural generator for wave V of ABR is:

• A Cochlear nerve (CN VIII) proximal end — cochlear nucleus
• B Lateral lemniscus/inferior colliculus (contralateral pathway) ✓
• C Superior olivary complex
• D Cochlear nucleus (dorsal and ventral) at the pontomedullary junction

Explanation

The generally accepted generators for ABR waves: Wave I = distal CN VIII (cochlea); Wave II = proximal CN VIII / cochlear nucleus; Wave III = superior olivary complex; Wave IV = lateral lemniscus nuclei; Wave V = lateral lemniscus terminating at the inferior colliculus (contralateral dominant). Wave V is the largest and most persistent wave, used as the clinical threshold marker. Prolongation of wave I–V interpeak latency indicates retrocochlear pathology between the cochlear nerve and inferior colliculus.

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.