Weber's test

Last reviewed 03/2023

  • Weber's test was developed to detect unilateral hearing loss (1)
  • it compares bone conduction in both ears. It is most valuable in distinguishing between a true and false Rinne's negative test. It is frequently done post-operatively, to check that the ear is active.
  • A vibrating 512Hz tuning fork is placed on the centre of the patients forehead. The patient is asked whether the sound is heard in the middle or to one side.
  • If the sound lateralizes (is louder on one side than the other), it suggests the following:
    • an ipsilateral conductive hearing loss
    • a contralateral sensorineural hearing loss (2)

Click here for video showing Rinne and Weber testing

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