Current Trends in Noise-Induced Tinnitus

Noise-induced tinnitus results from cochlear synaptopathy and central auditory hyperactivity, altering neural networks linked to attention and cognition. However, research on noiseinduced tinnitus has primarily been conducted using animal models. The purpose of this review is to summarize recent studies on the effects of noise exposure on hearing and tinnitus and to systematically analyze objective tinnitus diagnostic methods to improve future clinical utility. When 16 papers that evaluated tinnitus patients using electrophysiology were analyzed, those with noise exposure history showed-differential patterns in the amplitude or latency of auditory brainstem response (ABR) wave I, while those without showed more meaningful patterns in the amplitude or latency of wave V. However, this interpretation is difficult to separate the effects of the two factors because noise exposure and hearing loss often occur together. Tinnitus not only impairs sustained and executive attention but also adversely affects cognitive functions. Furthermore, noise-induced tinnitus has been shown to influence various aspects of attention and cognition. Future research requires methods that accurately measure the intensity and duration of noise exposure and research designs that can minimize or control the effects of hearing loss. For clinical practice, it is necessary to establish more accurate diagnostic criteria to distinguish between noise-induced tinnitus and tinnitus caused by other factors, and to utilize and complement other objective electrophysiological test methods, such as electrocochleography (ECochG) including ABR. These steps will contribute to a better understanding of noise-induced tinnitus and improve diagnostic accuracy in clinical settings.