BioMARK Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is BioMARK?

BioMARK is a neurophysiologic test used to quickly and objectively assess the processing of sound by the nervous system. Disordered processing of sound has been associated with reading and listening (auditory processing) impairments in some children. This procedure was developed in the Auditory Neuroscience Laboratory at Northwestern University by Dr. Nina Kraus and her colleagues. For more detailed information about this and other research from this laboratory, visit http://www.brainvolts.northwestern.edu.

How is BioMARK done?

Three recording electrodes are placed on the child’s head, and a speech sound is played in the child’s right ear. The electrodes record the brain’s activity in response to the speech sound. The information is analyzed by computer algorithms and interpreted by an audiologist. BioMARK is a noninvasive test that assesses the ability of the auditory system to encode sound accurately.

What does my child do during the testing?

This is an objective test, meaning it requires no response from your child. He or she will sit and watch a video during the testing. Your child will be instructed to sit as still as possible so that the test will run most efficiently.

What do the results tell you?

Research has shown that some children who have a language-based learning disability, including dyslexia, SLI, ADHD, and auditory processing deficits, do not process speech sounds accurately. This test, in conjunction with other measures of learning, language abilities and auditory processing, can will enable a professional to determine whether your child displays this inaccurate “transcription” of speech sounds by the brain.

What is the benefit of knowing that BioMARK is abnormal?

In conjunction with other measures of learning, language abilities and auditory processing, BioMARK can help assess the nature and origin of the problem and help the clinician form recommendations for treatment. Our informal observations indicate that an abnormal score together with other findings can help secure treatment in school. Knowing there is a physiological basis for the child's language deficits can help the parent and teachers understand that it is not a behavioral issue such as "he just doesn't try hard enough" or "she doesn't pay attention.”

If the results are negative, but I still think my child has a problem, what do I do?

So far, no single test assesses all of a child’s abilities. Because BioMARK is only one test, parents are encouraged to investigate other types of evaluations, such as a psychoeducational assessment, available through your child's school or a private practitioner.

Is my child a candidate for BioMARK testing?

If your child is 3 to 12 years old and capable of sitting relatively still (while watching a video) for about 20 minutes, the BioMARK test can be performed. A prerequisite for the testing is for the child to have normal hearing sensitivity.

I would like to schedule my child for a BioMARK test. What should I do?

BioMARK testing is performed for research purposes at the Auditory Neuroscience Lab (847 491-2457)

What if I still have more questions?

Please see the Clinical Technologies section of the Auditory Neuroscience Laboratory website at http://www.brainvolts.northwestern.edu/projects/biomark/biomark_clinicaltechnology.php for more information on BioMARK.
For questions about the Natus product that includes BioMARK, please contact Kathy Murphy, Global Marketing Manager, at kmurphy@natus.com.