Central Auditory Processing Abilities in Children with Non-Syndromic Cleft Lip/and Palate

Abstract

The present study aimed to assess the central auditory processing abilities and working memory in children with non-syndromic cleft lip and palate (NSCLP) and to compare with the developed normative and craniofacially normal peers. The relationship between age and central auditory processing abilities in children with NSCLP was also measured. Sixteen NSCLP children aged 7 to 12 years were recruited in this study. Fifteen craniofacially normal peers participated to compare the working memory abilities and temporal resolution abilities among children with NSCLP. Speech perception in noise Kannada (SPIN-K), gap detection threshold (GDT), dichotic consonant-vowel (DCV), and masking level difference (MLD) tests were administered to assess various central auditory processing abilities. Working memory abilities were assessed by using forward-digit span and backward-digit span tests. The results showed significant differences in SPIN-K, dichotic CV, GDT, forward digit, and backward digit span scores between children with NSCLP and craniofacially normal peers. Estimating the relationship between age and central auditory processing measures revealed a positive correlation between age and single correct scores of dichotic CV in children with NSCLP. Thus, it can be concluded from the present study that children with NSCLP have a risk of developing auditory processing deficits. To conclude, assessment of central auditory processing abilities in children with NSCLP is recommended.