Anomalous cross-modal plasticity following posterior fossa surgery: some speculations on gaze-evoked tinnitus.
A unique and intriguing form of subjective tinnitus evoked by eye gaze is reviewed. A new perspective is presented because this condition is sufficiently different from other forms of subjective tinnitus and its manifestation cannot be adequately explained by existing models or conceptual frameworks. Our examination of this topic considers pathophysiologic changes in the central nervous system in the context of deafferentation-induced plasticity. Potential neuroanatomical areas contributing to this effect include a number of distributed and functionally diverse areas in the brainstem and neocortex involved in the auditory control of eye movements. We also consider contemporary psychophysical methods to evaluate the perceptual correlates of this phenomenon and tools for the development of objective tinnitus measurements. Although theoretical and speculative in nature, this article is intended to stimulate interest in, advance knowledge of, and provide a better understanding about this condition.
Cacace
A T
AT
Department of Surgery, Albany Medical College, NY 12208, USA.
Lovely
T J
TJ
McFarland
D J
DJ
Parnes
S M
SM
Winter
D F
DF
D001933:Brain Stem / Q000503:physiopathology; D002490:Central Nervous System / Q000503:physiopathology*; D002540:Cerebral Cortex / Q000503:physiopathology; D003388:Cranial Fossa, Posterior / Q000601:surgery*; D005133:Eye Movements / Q000502:physiology*; D006319:Hearing Loss, Sensorineural / Q000150:complications / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans; D009473:Neuronal Plasticity / Q000502:physiology*; D009475:Neurons, Afferent / Q000473:pathology; D014012:Tinnitus / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology*