Weber test

[4][5] The Weber and the Rinne test (/ˈrɪnə/ RIN-ə)[6] are typically performed together when the results of each combined to determine the location and nature of any hearing losses detected.

In the case where the patient is unaware or has acclimated to their hearing loss, the clinician has to use the Rinne test in conjunction with the Weber to characterize and localize any deficits.

For the Rinne test, a vibrating tuning fork (typically 512 Hz) is placed initially on the mastoid process behind each ear until sound is no longer heard.

Reported test accuracy measurements are very variable for clinical screening, surgical candidacy assessments, and estimation of hearing loss severity.

[11] Conductive hearing loss can be mimicked by plugging one ear with a finger and performing the Rinne and Weber tests, which will help clarify the above.

Humming a constant note and then plugging one ear is a good way to mimic the findings of the Weber test in conductive hearing loss.

If air conduction is intact on both sides (therefore no CHL), the patient will report a quieter sound in the ear with the sensorineuronal hearing loss.

Hearing defects affecting both ears equally, as in presbycusis will produce an apparently normal test result.

This also means that a Weber-lateralized ear with bilateral negative-Rinne corresponds to only sensorineural hearing on the ipsilateral side not being affected.

The Rinne test is used in cases of unilateral hearing loss and establishes which ear has the greater bone conduction.