In Phase I of the proposed project, an integrated audiovestibular screening and testing system for bedside ototoxicity monitoring will be developed. Antineoplastic and powerful antibiotic drugs are life-savers but can have significant side effects, including ototoxicity. A potentially effective way of limiting or preventing functional impairment from drug-induced cochleo- and vestibulo- ototoxicity is to monitor the patient's status during chemotherapy. Practical, cost-effective programs of ototoxicity monitoring, however, have yet to be developed and current approaches are one-sided, focusing on hearing status in their evaluation of the inner ear. Scientific breakthroughs by University of Pittsburgh researchers on ototoxicity monitoring, in conjunction with Intelligent Hearing Systems' microprocessor-based instrumentation and digital signal processing innovations now provide the necessary technology to perform cost- effective, bedside ototoxicity monitoring. The prototype system to be developed will incorporate conventional and high-frequency distortion product otacoustic emissions assessment and audiometry along with head- only rotational testing of vestibular function. The validity and reliability of the device will be assessed against laboratory/clinical standard tests in multiple populations. The limits of detectability of significant changes in cochlear and vestibular function will be determined. These efforts will be pursued by an interdisciplinary team utilizing state-of-the-art technology to bring a viable product to market.
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