The program was originally aired as part of the “Audiology 2012: Success for Students With Hearing Loss” online conference (October 17–29, 2012).

The rapid advancement in the genetics field impacts a number of medical disciplines, including audiology. Audiologists should be familiar with both the basic concepts of genetics and some of the latest clinical advances regarding inherited hearing disorders. In this presentation, we'll focus on patterns of genetic inheritance and some of the gene mutations that lead to hearing impairment (e.g, Connexin 26 related non-syndromic hearing loss, autosomal and X-linked disorders such as Waardenberg and Usher syndrome, and mitochondrial DNA mutations). Finally, we'll discuss recent developments in diagnosis and genetic counseling, the current and future treatment of these disorders, and relevant resources to enhance your clinical practice.

Learning Outcomes
You will be able to:

• discuss the various modes of inheritance that lead to hearing loss
• discuss the genetic mechanisms including gene mutations and chromosome rearrangements that can result in hearing impairment
• describe current and future techniques in diagnosing and treating hearing disorders

 View the Table of Contents [PDF]