interpeak

Interpeak refers to the interval between consecutive peaks in a time-domain signal. In practice, it denotes the time or distance between successive local maxima of a waveform. The term is commonly used in biomedical signal analysis—especially in audiology and neurophysiology—where peak timing conveys information about neural conduction along sensory pathways.

In auditory brainstem response testing, interpeak latencies are measured between waves labeled I, III, and V. These values reflect transmission times from the auditory nerve through brainstem nuclei and are used to assess retrocochlear function and myelin integrity. Prolonged I-III, III-V, or I-V latencies can indicate neural conduction delays due to lesions, demyelination, or other pathology, whereas normal interpeak values support intact pathways. Similar concepts apply in EEG or MEG analysis, where interpeak intervals help characterize rhythmic activity or responses to stimuli.

Measurement typically involves identifying the peaks in averaged waveforms, often after filtering and artifact rejection, and calculating the time difference between successive peaks. The measure can be defined as a latency (time) or simply as a period between peaks, depending on the analysis context. Accuracy depends on signal quality, consistent peak identification, and the sampling rate.

See also: peak-to-peak interval, latency, auditory evoked potentials, EEG, ABR.