Individualized testing and diagnosis for adult-onset hearing loss
Researchers at the Center for Adult-Onset Hearing Loss use specialized tests to identify genetic markers of hearing loss. If hearing loss is in your genes, we can better predict how you might experience hearing loss and select the treatments most likely to be effective. Genetic testing helps us make your care plan more targeted and individualized.
Early diagnosis and intervention for hearing loss may even slow its progression and reduce the likelihood of related health problems, such as depression or dementia. We can also use genetic testing to predict the likelihood of hearing loss in your children and grandchildren.
If you have symptoms of hearing loss or a family history of hearing loss, it may be time to talk to a specialist about genetic testing.
Before your appointment, you may want to talk with family members to find out if hearing loss runs in your family. We’ll collect a three-generation family tree that includes your children, siblings, parents, aunts and uncles, and grandparents. If you’re enrolled in MyChart by myPennMedicine, you’ll receive a message asking you to provide information about your family history. Please complete the relevant information in a return message to the sender.
Plan to arrive 15 minutes before your appointment time. You don’t need to fast in preparation for the blood or saliva sample collection.
During your appointment, you’ll meet with a board-certified genetic counselor who will review your medical and family history. They’ll also explain the benefits, risks, and limitations of genetic testing so you can decide whether you want to be tested.
Meeting with a genetic counselor doesn’t mean you’re obligated to have genetic testing. The choice is personal, and our staff is here to support your decision. You’ll also have the opportunity to enroll in the Penn Medicine BioBank, a repository of blood and tissue samples that help our scientists study diseases and develop new treatments.
If you decide to proceed with genetic testing, your otologist will do a brief physical exam and answer any questions you may have. We take blood and saliva samples for testing.
The entire appointment lasts about an hour. We usually receive your results in four to six weeks. A genetic counselor will contact you to review the results.
Most health insurance plans cover clinical genetic testing, but coverage varies based on your insurance type and plan. Before testing, we review your insurance. Your genetic counselor will discuss your coverage and any anticipated out-of-pocket costs. Self-pay options are available if your insurance doesn’t cover testing. Enrollment in the Penn Medicine BioBank is available at no cost.
Potential risks of genetic testing include:
- Genetic testing doesn’t reveal the cause of every person’s hearing loss.
- Not all genetic variants are well-understood, so you could receive an “uncertain” result.
- You may learn that you’re at risk of other health concerns through genetic testing.