Abstract Details
9/07/2025 | 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM | Instructional Session | Thomas H. Swain
Exploring the Intersection of Congenital Cytomegalovirus and Vestibular Function
Abstract Summary
While the hearing impact of congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) is relatively well published, the impact on the vestibular system is a significant yet often overlooked complication. Vestibular dysfunction increases the risk for gross motor delays and problems with reading/academics, social skills, and memory without targeted early intervention (Hazen & Cushing, 2021). Recommendations for monitoring vestibular and balance function were first presented at the National CMV Conference in 2023. This year, the presentation will review the early findings of these new recommendations from a collaborative study across four major pediatric hospitals. Our aim was to understand the prevalence, characteristics, and clinical implications of vestibular dysfunction in this vulnerable population to help further refine monitoring recommendations. Additionally, attendees will get an inside look at vestibular testing in infants and young children through shared videos and cases.
Learning Objectives
- Describe the potential impact of vestibular dysfunction in the presence of a significant hearing loss.
- Describe vestibular monitoring protocols for cochlear implant candidates and recipients.
- Describe vestibular monitoring recommendations for children diagnosed with cCMV.
Presentation
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Presenters
Karen Hendrick | Primary Presenter
karen.hendrick@childrenscolorado.org;
• Dr. Karen Hendrick is a clinical audiologist and Vestibular Clinical Practice Specialist at Children’s Hospital Colorado. She graduated with her AuD from the University of Washington in 2015, following an externship at Seattle Children’s Hospital. She served on the board of the Colorado Academy of Audiology as the Vice President of Education from 2018 to 2020. She also served on the development committee for the Vestibular Audiology Specialty Certification (VASC). Current and past research includes vestibular findings in congenital cytomegalovirus, pediatric onset multiple sclerosis, and cerebellar mutism syndrome.
ASHA DISCLOSURE
Financial - Receives Speaker for Teaching and speaking from National CMV Foundation.
Nonfinancial - No relevant nonfinancial relationship exists.
AAA DISCLOSURE
Financial - Receives support from Children's Hospital Colorado employee for Honorarium from National CMV Foundation for presenting.