Introduction: This study compares the reliability and validity of three methods of testing hearing in mice.
Setting: Animal research laboratory.
Methods: Three methods of testing hearing were used in 18 mice: (1) auditory brainstem response (ABR), (2) electrocochleography with a needle electrode, and (3) electrocochleography with a soft, cotton-wick electrode.
Results: Reliability was good for all three tests, but ABR testing was the easiest and provided the lowest thresholds and least variability. The results for these tests under other conditions may vary.
Conclusion: ABR testing can be considered an optimal test method under the circumstances in this study.