Reduced binaural masking release in women with migraine despite normal hearing: a case-control study
Abstract
Introduction Migraine is a neurological disorder associated with altered sensory processing, including auditory hypersensitivity. Although peripheral hearing is typically normal, central auditory mechanisms—particularly binaural interaction—may be affected. The masking level difference (MLD) test evaluates binaural processing at the level of the auditory brainstem. Methods This case-control study included 30 female patients with migraine and 35 age-matched healthy controls. All participants had normal otoscopic findings, type A tympanograms, and normal pure-tone thresholds. MLD testing was performed at 500 Hz. and 60 dB under homophasic (S0N0) and antiphasic (SπN0, S0Nπ) conditions. MLD values were calculated as the difference between homophasic and antiphasic thresholds. Group comparisons and ANCOVA were conducted. Results Pure-tone thresholds were within normal limits but significantly higher in the migraine group (p < 0.001). No significant difference was observed in S0N0 thresholds. However, SπN0 and S0Nπ thresholds were significantly elevated in patients (p < 0.001). Accordingly, both MLD indices (S0N0–SπN0 and S0N0–S0Nπ) were significantly reduced in the migraine group (p < 0.001), and these differences remained significant after controlling for pure-tone averages. Conclusion Migraine patients demonstrate reduced binaural masking release despite normal peripheral hearing, suggesting impaired brainstem-level binaural processing. These findings support altered central…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a case-control, done in people. Its evidence level is 4 of 5 (Low · observational). Observational designs can show an association but not prove cause. Reported size: 30 participants or records.
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