Effect of tinnitus on the performance of central auditory system: a review

Tinnitus is one of the most difficult challenges in audiology and otology. Previous studies have been shown that tinnitus may interfere with the function of central auditory system (CAS). Involvement of CAS abilities including speech perception and auditory processing has led to serious problems in people with tinnitus. Due to the lack of enough information about the impact of tinnitus on CAS and its function, and given that there is no standardized protocol for assessment and management of tinnitus, this study aimed to review the studies on the effect of tinnitus on the CAS function.

Sixteen eligible articles were reviewed. Temporal and spectral resolution, frequency differentiation and speech perception deficits were reported in patients with tinnitus, especially in background noise. This was reported even in tinnitus patients with normal hearing.

Assessment of central auditory pro cessing and speech perception in noise seems to be useful for proper management of tinnitus in clinical practice.