What condition is characterized by damage to the cilia in the basilar membrane of the cochlea?

The condition characterized by damage to the cilia in the basilar membrane of the cochlea is sensorineural hearing loss. This form of hearing loss occurs when there is a problem with the inner ear or the neural pathways to the brain. The cilia, or hair cells, located within the cochlea play a crucial role in converting sound vibrations into electrical signals sent to the brain. When these hair cells are damaged—due to factors such as exposure to loud noises, aging, infections, or genetic factors—sensorineural hearing loss can result. This type of hearing loss typically leads to a permanent decrease in hearing ability, as the cilia do not regenerate.

Other options relate to different mechanisms of hearing loss. Congenital hearing loss refers specifically to conditions present at birth, which can be due to genetic factors or complications during pregnancy or childbirth. Mixed hearing loss involves a combination of conductive and sensorineural hearing loss. Conductive hearing loss pertains to problems in the outer or middle ear that prevent sound from being conducted to the inner ear effectively.