What indicates an abnormal result on a Weber test?

In a Weber test, which assesses hearing function, an abnormal result is indicated by lateralization to one ear. This is significant because the Weber test relies on the principle that sound will be perceived differently depending on the type of hearing loss present.

In a normal result, sound is perceived equally in both ears, meaning there would be no lateralization. When sound lateralizes to one ear, it suggests that there may be a conductive hearing loss in that ear or a sensorineural loss in the opposite ear. For example, if the sound lateralizes to the right ear, it could indicate that the right ear has conductive hearing loss, or the left ear (which is perceiving less sound due to a sensorineural loss) is not receiving the sound effectively.

The other scenarios mentioned do not indicate abnormal findings in the Weber test. No lateralization in either ear suggests normal hearing function, while the terms relating to air conduction (AC) and bone conduction (BC) refer more specifically to findings in a Rinne test rather than to the Weber test. Therefore, the correct interpretation of the Weber test's outcomes is that lateralization to one ear constitutes an abnormal result, warranting further diagnostic evaluation.