Balancing the caloric-induced nystagmus velocity with cold air and water.
A useful alternative to the traditional water caloric is to use an air stimulus. However, the caloric test has not been standardized and a range of parameters are being used in different audiology clinics. The aim of this study was to determine cold air parameters that resulted in a similar slow-component eye velocity to that for water irrigation. Twelve normal subjects underwent caloric testing using air temperatures in the range 18-33 degrees C. The duration and air-flow rate were held constant at 60 s and 5 l/min. A water irrigation at 30 degrees C for 30 s and delivering 150 ml resulted in a mean slow-component eye velocity of 17 degrees/s. An equal response was obtained with an air temperature of 21.0 degrees C. Further work is required to find equivalent air and water responses for other combinations of parameters.
Munro
K J
KJ
Hearing and Balance Centre, Institute of Sound and Vibration Research, University of Southampton, UK.
Bonnington
C L
CL
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000388:Air; D002150:Caloric Tests / Q000009:adverse effects*; D003080:Cold Temperature; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009759:Nystagmus, Pathologic / Q000209:etiology*; D013696:Temperature; D014867:Water
D014867:Water