Exploring the relationship between reduced sound tolerance, sensory processing disorder, and auditory processing disorder in children : a scoping review

Abstract

Introduction: Reduced sound tolerance, sensory processing disorder (SPD), and auditory processing disorder (APD) can have significant adverse effects, particularly on communication in children. As a result, investigating the relationship between reduced sound tolerance and SPD, with a focus on APD, may lead to important discoveries that could contribute to the development of targeted intervention strategies. Objective: The main purpose of this scoping review was to comprehensively explore the existing literature to allow for the determination of the relationship between these conditions, and identifying gaps in research. Study design: A scoping review was used to conduct this study. A data extraction form was utilized to acquire information from articles that met the inclusion criteria set by the authors. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) were applied during a structured search for articles in five different electronic databases with information on reduced sound tolerance and sensory processing disorder in children. Keywords comprised of "Auditory Processing Disorder", "Sensory Processing Disorder", "reduced sound tolerance", "hyperacusis" and "children". The electronic databases were searched for relevant articles published from the 20th of June to the 25th of August. The opinion of two experienced researchers was used throughout the data collection process. All authors received identical library training to reduce discrepancies in data extraction. All four authors extracted the data and two researchers assessed the relevance and applicability of the data that was obtained. The data was analysed and key characteristics from each study were highlighted using a narrative synthesis approach. Results: Seven articles were included in the review. All the studies provided information regarding reduced sound tolerance in children with APD or SPD. The studies highlighted a relationship between reduced sound tolerance and APD in children. APD and hyperacusis were seen to co-occur in three out of the seven studies found, with one study reporting a 70.9% prevalence of hyperacusis in children with APD. Another study indicated that speech in noise training might improve auditory processing and sound tolerance in children with SPD. Conclusion: A notable overlap between reduced sound tolerance and SPD has been highlighted in the findings. This scoping review brought relevant information to light but also emphasized the gaps in the literature and the need for a more comprehensive analysis of the relationship between reduced sound tolerance and SPD, specifically focusing on APD.