Which test assesses for sensorineural hearing loss by placing a tuning fork on the top of the head?

The Weber test is used to assess for sensorineural hearing loss by placing a tuning fork on the midline of the forehead, typically at the top of the head. When the tuning fork is struck, the sound resonates and travels through the bones of the skull, allowing the clinician to assess how the sound is perceived in each ear. In a person with normal hearing, the sound is heard equally in both ears. However, in cases of sensorineural hearing loss, the sound will lateralize to the unaffected ear, meaning the patient will hear the sound better in the ear that is not affected by hearing loss.

This test is particularly useful because it can help differentiate between types of hearing loss—specifically, it evaluates the function of the inner ear and the auditory pathways. Understanding the implications of the results can guide further management and intervention strategies for the patient.

The other tests listed do not assess for sensorineural hearing loss in the same manner as the Weber test. For instance, the Rinne test evaluates air conduction versus bone conduction but does not specifically assess lateralization of sounds, while the Romberg test assesses balance and proprioception and does not relate to hearing loss at all. Fowler's test is also not relevant in this context as it