VARIABILITY OF AUDITORY BRAINSTEM RESPONSES IN AUTISM: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW WITH A NEUROSCIENTIFIC PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

This integrative review aimed to analyze the variability of auditory brainstem responses (ABR) in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) from a neuroscientific perspective. The reviewed literature reveals significant heterogeneity in the electrophysiological response patterns observed in individuals with ASD, particularly concerning wave latencies and amplitudes during ABR testing. Evidence suggests that such variability may reflect neural conduction instabilities and impaired temporal synchronization, which directly impact auditory processing and speech perception. Studies demonstrated that ABR, especially when performed using speech stimuli, shows greater sensitivity in detecting central auditory alterations, even when peripheral hearing is intact. The findings emphasize the importance of objective electrophysiological tools for the early detection of atypical developmental signs. Furthermore, approaches that consider auditory sensitivity, acoustic environment, and individual sensory profiles expand the clinical understanding of ASD and support more precise intervention strategies. It is concluded that the variability observed in ABR should not be interpreted as diagnostic noise but rather as a meaningful marker of neurobiological functioning in autism, with significant implications for clinical assessment, prognosis, and early intervention.