Analysis of eye movement characteristics in newly diagnosed drug-naive Parkinson′s disease / 中华神经科杂志

Objective:To explore eye movement characteristics in newly diagnosed, drug-naive Parkinson′s disease (PD) patients and their correlation with motor and non-motor symptoms.Methods:Seventy-five newly diagnosed, drug-naive PD patients and 46 healthy controls (HCs) were included in this cross-sectional study. Patients were recruited from the Department of Neurology, Shanghai Ninth People′s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine from November 2017 to December 2021, while HCs were recruited from the local community during the same period. For PD patients, motor severity was measured with the modified Hoehn and Yahr stage, Movement Disorder Society Unified Parkinson′s Disease Rating Scale part Ⅲ and the Freezing of Gait questionnaire. Non-motor symptoms were evaluated by serial scales such as Non-Motor Symptoms Questionnaire, 16-item odor identification test from Sniffin Sticks, 17-item Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression, Chinese version of Mini-Mental State Examination, Montreal Cognitive Assessment Basic and REM Behavior Disorder Screening Questionnaire. All subjects underwent oculomotor test including pro-saccade task and smooth pursuit eye movement (SPEM) task in the horizontal direction via videonystagmography. Visually guided saccade latency, saccadic accuracy and gain in SPEM at three frequencies (0.1, 0.2, 0.4 Hz) of the horizontal axis were compared between the 2 groups. The association between key oculomotor parameters and clinical phenotypes was explored in PD patients. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses of eye movement parameters as independent factors were also performed for detecting PD from HCs, then combining the saccadic latency, saccadic accuracy and the most significant SPEM gain (0.4 Hz) as the model to distinguish PD from HCs.Results:Relative to HCs, newly diagnosed, drug-naive PD patients showed prolonged saccadic latency [(210.4±41.3) ms vs (191.3±18.9) ms, t=-3.445, P=0.001] and decreased saccadic accuracy (88.4%±6.8% vs 92.2%±6.1%, t=3.064, P=0.003). SPEM gain in PD was uniformly reduced at each frequency(0.1 Hz: 0.68±0.15 vs 0.74±0.14, t=2.261, P=0.026; 0.2 Hz: 0.72±0.16 vs 0.79±0.16, t=2.704, P=0.008; 0.4 Hz: 0.67±0.19 vs 0.78±0.19, t=2.937, P=0.004). The ROC analyses of saccade latency, saccadic accuracy and gain in SPEM at 0.1, 0.2, 0.4 Hz as independent factors for detecting PD from HCs showed that the area under the curve (AUC) of each parameter was lower than 0.7: the AUC of saccade latency was 0.641 ( P=0.010), the AUC of saccadic accuracy was 0.681 ( P=0.001), the AUC of gain in SPEM at 0.1 Hz was 0.616 ( P=0.032), at 0.2 Hz was 0.652 ( P=0.005), at 0.4 Hz was 0.660 ( P=0.003). Combining the saccadic latency, saccadic accuracy and the most significant SPEM gain (0.4 Hz) revealed that the model could significantly distinguish PD from HCs with an 80.4% sensitivity and a 73.3% specificity (AUC=0.780, P<0.001). Prolonged saccadic latency was correlated with long disease duration ( β=0.334, 95% CI 0.014-0.654, P=0.041), whereas decreased SPEM gain was associated with severe motor symptoms in newly diagnosed drug-naive PD patients (0.1 Hz: β=-0.004, 95% CI -0.008--0.001, P=0.036; 0.4 Hz: β=-0.006, 95% CI -0.011--0.001, P=0.012). Conclusions:Ocular movements are impaired in newly diagnosed, drug-naive PD patients. These changes could be indicators for disease progression in PD.

Interpretación de resultados de las pruebas oculomotoras, posicionales y calóricas de la videonistagmografía. Revisión documental / Interpretation of the results of the oculomotor, positional and caloric test of the videonistagmography. Documentary review

Introducción: en la actualidad, se reconocen cuadros vestibulares periféricos y centrales que pueden ser diagnosticados mediante la videonistagmografía (VNG). Los avances en la tecnología han provocado en los profesionales una constante actualización en el uso e interpretación de las distintas pruebas que conlleven, en su lectura cruzada, un diagnóstico acertado y a tratamientos de rehabilitación exitosos. El objetivo fue describir las interpretaciones de los resultados de las pruebas oculomotoras, posicionales y calóricas de la VNG para lograr un diagnóstico detallado de las disfunciones vestibulares. Materiales y métodos: revisión documental obtenida de 40 fuentes reportadas en la literatura científica entre 2010 a 2020 tomadas de bases de datos, tesis de grado y libros. Discusión: dentro de la revisión se encontraron tres categorías (pruebas oculomotoras, posicionales y calóricas) y siete subcategorías (nistagmo espontáneo, nistagmo evocado por la mirada, rastreo, sacadas, optocinético, Dix-Hallpike y roll test). Conclusión: los diversos elementos encontrados en la presente revisión son relevantes ya que precisan no solo el tipo de vértigo, sino también su localización topográfica, lo que favorece el proceso de evaluacióndiagnóstico en la población en general.

Introduction: At present, peripheral and central vestibular frames are recognized that can be diagnosed by videonystagmography (VNG). Advances in technology have caused professionals to constantly update the use and interpretation of the different tests that lead, in their cross-reading, to an accurate diagnosis and successful rehabilitation treatments. The objective was to describe the interpretations of the results of the oculomotor, positional and caloric tests of the VNG, for a detailed diagnosis of the vestibular dysfunctions. Materials and method: Documentary review obtained from 40 sources reported in the scientific literature between 2010 and 2020, taken from databases, thesis and books. Discussion: Within the review, three categories were found (oculomotor, positional and caloric tests) and seven subcategories (spontaneous nystagmus, gaze-evoked nystagmus, tracking, saccades, optokinetic, Dix-Hallpike and roll test). Conclusion: The various elements found in this review are relevant in that they specify not only the type of vertigo but also its topographic location, favoring the evaluation-diagnosis process in the general population.

Nuevo detector de enfermedades vestibulares basado en el análisis espectro temporal de nistagmogramas

Introducción: La exploración del sistema vestibular exige una evaluación precisa, sistemática y completa de la respuesta vestíbulo-ocular. Actualmente los sistemas solo analizan secciones definidas subjetivamente por especialistas clínicos en los registros del nistagmo, y se calculan parámetros en el dominio del tiempo, que a menudo se ven afectados por las interferencias y el ruido en el sistema de exploración durante las pruebas vestibulares. Objetivo: Presentar un nuevo sistema para la exploración y caracterización del nistagmo obtenido mediante electronistagmografía. Métodos: Los registros fueron adquiridos a partir de pruebas rotatorias en una muestra de 49 sujetos, se introdujo el análisis espectro temporal del nistagmo inducido, que permitió definir la zona de mayor interés clínico para el análisis durante las pruebas. Resultados: Se obtuvo un nuevo indicador espectro temporal, detector de enfermedades vestibulares, basado en la comparación del comportamiento del análisis espectral del nistagmo en la sección central de fases de velocidad constante y desaceleración de los registros clínicos. Se obtuvo una buena sensibilidad (90,32 %) y una buena especificidad (88,89 %) del nuevo indicador, relacionado con la determinación de personas enfermas en uno o ambos laberintos. Conclusiones: El método y el nuevo indicador definido, presentaron mayor capacidad diagnóstica, que el habitual análisis cuantitativo de las señales; mostraron una sensibilidad y especificidad superiores. Permiten llegar a conclusiones en la práctica clínica diaria, con mucha más rapidez que la valoración de los parámetros temporales habitualmente utilizados en los análisis, que presentan como debilidad, el amplio intervalo de valores normales.

Introduction: The exploration of the vestibular system requires an accurate, systematic and complete evaluation of the vestibule-ocular response. Currently, systems only analyze sections subjectively defined by clinical specialists in nystagmus records, and time domain parameters are calculated, which are often affected by interference and noise in the scanning system during vestibular tests. Objective: To present a new system for the exploration and characterization of nystagmus obtained by electronistagmography. Methods: The records were acquired from rotary tests in a sample of 49 subjects, the temporal spectrum analysis of the induced nystagmus was introduced, which allowed defining the area of ​​greatest clinical interest for the analysis during the tests. Results: A new temporal spectrum indicator was obtained, detector of vestibular diseases, based on the comparison of the behavior of the spectral analysis of nystagmus in the central section of constant velocity phases and deceleration of clinical records. A good sensitivity (90.32%) and a good specificity (88.89%) of the new indicator were obtained, related to the determination of sick people in one or both labyrinths. Conclusions: The method and the new defined indicator, presented greater diagnostic capacity, than the usual quantitative analysis of the signals; they showed superior sensitivity and specificity. They allow conclusions to be reached in daily clinical practice, much faster than the assessment of the temporal parameters usually used in the analyzes, which present as a weakness, the wide range of normal values.

La colocación de los electrodos para el registro electronistagmográfico

Fundamento: la calidad de un registro nistagmográfico durante los estudios del sistema vestibular, depende de la adecuada selección y colocación de los electrodos, los cuáles suelen ser ubicados en puntos específicos de la órbita ocular para permitir la recolección de la variación de potencial eléctrico generado entre la córnea y la retina causada por las sacudidas del nistagmo inducido o natural. Objetivo: presentar los resultados experimentales que demuestran esta influencia al cuantificar el efecto sobre los registros. Desarrollo: se empleó la técnica de estimulación visual con blanco móvil a diferentes frecuencias de movimiento, y los registros se realizaron en las condiciones de iluminación establecidas para electrooculografía, se utilizó un amplificador biomédico (electronistagmógrafo) de dos canales con frecuencia de muestreo de 1 kHz. Los Resultados obtenidos reflejan el cambio de las tensiones en los registros de acuerdo a la zona de colocación de los electrodos, al existir una zona óptima para el adecuado registro electronistagmográfico. Conclusiones: se demostró la afectación por zonas en los registros en el dominio temporal y de la frecuencia, y su influencia en la generación de errores en el diagnóstico topográfico de enfermedades que afectan el Sistema Vestibular.

Background: quality of record of electronystagmography during the studies of the vestibular system depends on the proper selection and placement of the electrodes, which are usually located at specific points in the eye socket to allow the collection of the variation of electric potential generated between the cornea and the retina caused by the jerking of the induced or natural nystagmus. Objective: to present the experimental results that demonstrate this influence by quantifying the effect on the records. Development: it was used the technique of visual stimulation with moving target at different frequencies of movement, and the records were made under the lighting conditions established in the published standard for electrooculography, using a two-channel amplifier with a sampling frequency of 1 kHz. The results obtained reflect the change in the tensions in the records according to the electrode placement zone, there being an optimal zone for the adequate record of electronystagmography. Conclusions: the affectation by zones in the records in the temporal domain and the frequency was demonstrated, and its influence in the generation of errors in the topographic diagnosis of diseases that affect the Vestibular System.

Association between the Unterberger-Fukuda test and vectoelectronystagmography / Associação entre a prova de Unterberger-Fukuda e o exame de vectoeletronistagmografia

ABSTRACT Purpose: to study and characterize anteroposterior and angular deviations in the Unterberger-Fukuda Test (UFT) in relation to the results of the caloric tests in patients complaining of dizziness or vertigo. Methods: 44 subjects-men and women between 20 and 79 years of age-who had symptoms of vertigo or dizziness and had been referred for vectoelectronystagmography were examined. The exclusion criteria were gait difficulties arising from orthopedic and/or spinal disorders, and syndromes or neurological diseases that affect balance. Two procedures were performed: vectoelectronystagmography and UFT. Results: the caloric test showed that 25.00% of the patients had hyporeflexia-the most frequent result. In the open-eyes UFT, only 2.30% presented altered results in anteroposterior displacement. In the closed-eyes test, the equivalent value was 31.80%. Anteroposterior deviation showed a greater correlation with age than the angular one. Abnormal results in the caloric test were associated with the UFT. Conclusion: the results of the closed-eyes UFT were associated with the caloric test. Anteroposterior deviation was correlated with age, while angular deviation was not.

RESUMO Objetivo: estudar e caracterizar os desvios anteroposteriores e angulares da Prova de Unterberger-Fukuda (PUF) em função do resultado da prova calórica, em sujeitos com queixa de tontura e ou vertigem. Métodos: foram avaliados 44 sujeitos, de ambos os sexos, com idade entre 20 a 79 anos, com queixa de vertigem e ou tontura, encaminhados para exame de vectoeletronistagmografia. Os critérios de exclusão foram a identificação de dificuldades de marcha decorrentes de alterações ortopédicas e ou de coluna, assim como síndromes e doenças neurológicas que afetam o equilíbrio. Foram realizados dois procedimentos, a PUF e o exame de vectonistagmografia. Resultados: na prova calórica o tipo de alteração mais frequente foi a hiporreflexia 25,00%, da casuística total. Para o resultado da PUF apenas 2,30% apresentou resultados alterados no deslocamento anteroposterior, de olhos abertos, na etapa de olhos fechados o mesmo tipo de ocorrência foi de 31,80%. O desvio anteroposterior mostrou maior correlação com o aumento da idade, em relação ao do tipo angular. Houve associação entre os resultados alterados na prova calórica e a PUF. Conclusão: os resultados da PUF de olhos fechados apresentaram associação com a prova calórica, o desvio do tipo anteroposterior esteve correlacionado ao aumento da idade, o angular não.

Exploración de los conductos semicirculares verticales con estimulación rotatoria inducida / Exploration of vertical semicircular ducts with induced rotatory stimulation

Las pruebas rotatorias han sido utilizadas durante más de un siglo para el estudio de la función vestibular por ser un estímulo fisiológico controlado muy efectivo sobre el laberinto posterior, habitualmente son los conductos semicirculares horizontales los que se exploran, pues se afectan con más frecuencia y son más fáciles de estudiar, sin embargo en ocasiones son los verticales los lesionados y por tanto deben emplearse otras alternativas para llegar a un diagnóstico certero. Se presenta un caso donde se evalúa la función fisiológica de los conductos semicirculares verticales a través de la electronistagmografía con estimulación rotatoria, empleando la técnica de estimulación tiempo-velocidad, con fases sucesivas de aceleración, velocidad constante, desaceleración y parada brusca, con una silla rotatoria computarizada, acoplada a un electronistagmógrafo. Se obtuvo arreflexia del canal vertical anterior derecho. A velocidades inferiores a 1 Hz es posible evaluar el reflejo vestíbulo ocular en los conductos semicirculares verticales, a pesar de que la frecuencia del estímulo está por debajo del nivel en que este reflejo funciona en las actividades diarias(AU)

Rotatory tests have been used for over a century for the study of vestibular function because it is a very effective physiological controlled stimulus on the posterior labyrinth, usually the horizontal semicircular ducts that are explored, since they are affected more frequently and are more easy to study, however sometimes the injured are vertical and therefore other alternatives must be used to arrive at a correct diagnosis. The aim of this study is to evaluate the range of physiological function of vertical semicircular ducts using electronystagmography and rotary stimulation. The method used was the technique of time - speed stimulation, with successive phases of acceleration, constant speed, deceleration and abrupt stop, with a computerized rotating chair. Vestibulo-ocular arreflexia of the right anterior vertical channel. It was shown that at speeds lower than 1 Hz it is possible to evaluate the Ocular Lobe Reflex in the vertical semicircular ducts, although the frequency of the stimulus is below the level at which this reflex works in daily activities(AU)

The significance of directional preponderance in the evaluation of vestibular function in patients with vertigo / 中华耳鼻咽喉头颈外科杂志

Objective@#To analyze the relationship between directional preponderance (DP), spontaneous nystagmus(SN) and vestibular disorders, and to investigate the significance of DP in directing peripheral vestibular function in patients with vertigo.@*Methods@#This was a retrospective analysis of 394 cases diagnosed with peripheral vestibular disease accompanied by vertigo from March 2012 to June 2014 in the Outpatient Department of the Eye & ENT Hospital of Fudan University. Results of static and dynamic posture equilibrium tests, SN, unilateral weakness(UW), and DP in videonystagmography(VNG) were analyzed and compared.@*Results@#The mean interval time between the last vertigo attack and examination in patients with SN or DP in caloric test were 4.4 d and 7.3 d respectively, and those without SN or DP were 18.3 d and 17.5 d respectively. The patients were divided into two groups according to DP results of caloric test. DP-normal group had 203 cases and DP-abnormal group had 191 cases. Spontaneous nystagmus was presented in 44 cases in the DP-normal group (21.67%) and four in the DP-abnormal group (2.09%). A significant difference was found between the two groups (χ2=35.27, P=0.000). Deficiency of vestibular function was noted in 165 cases in the DP-normal group (81.28%) and 123 (64.40%) in the DP-abnormal group in static and dynamic posture equilibrium tests. The difference between the two groups was statistically significant (χ2=14.26, P=0.000).@*Conclusion@#Compared with DP-normal patients, DP-abnormal patients are more likely to have spontaneous nystagmus and balance disorders due to vestibular dysfunction.

The Impact of Dizziness on the Quality of Life of 235 Individuals who Completed Vestibular Testing in Brazil

Introduction In Vestibular Testing (VT), caloric tests allow evaluation of unilateral weakness (UW) and directional preponderance (DP), where different criteria of normality are adopted in Brazil and worldwide. The Brazilian version of the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (Brazilian DHI) evaluates the impact of dizziness on the quality of life of an individual. Objectives The objective of this research is to evaluate the impact of dizziness on the quality of life of patients undergoing VT, and to relate these findings to the results obtained according to national and international criteria. Methods Cross-sectional analytic study of 235 patients referred for VT in two hospitals. The authors performed the Brazilian DHI, history, static, and dynamic balance tests, positional nystagmus, and the Dix-Hallpike maneuver, as well as vectoelectronystagmography. Subjects were divided into three groups according to UW and DP values. Descriptive statistics and comparisons between groups were performed, considering a significance level of 5% in all analyses. Results Patients groups had 20.9% men, and 79.1% women. There was no significant difference between groups for the scores obtained in the Brazilian DHI. There was, however, a statistically significant difference in the redistribution of individuals according to the UWand DP values. Conclusion There was no relationship between VT results and the impact of dizziness in the quality of life. A review of normal values for UW and DP adopted in Brazil is suggested, as well as the application of the Brazilian DHI as an additional tool to evaluate the impact of dizziness on quality of life in all patients undergoing VT.

Frequência de alteração vestibular em bombeiros militares de Alagoas / Frequency of vestibular disorder in military firefighters from Alagoas

OBJETIVOS: investigar a frequência de alterações vestibulares em bombeiros de Alagoas e suas queixas. MÉTODOS: realizaram-se anamnese e avaliação audiológica, desclassificando da amostra os sujeitos com perda auditiva. Em seguida foi realizada a manobra de Dix-Hallpike e vectoeletronistagmografia. Aplicou-se o Teste Qui-Quadrado e Exato de Fisher para análise estatística, com significância de 5% (p=0,050). RESULTADOS: compuseram a amostra 26 sujeitos do gênero masculino (86,7%) e 4 feminino (13,3%), com idade variando entre 24 e 35 anos. Destes, 13 sujeitos (43,4%) apresentaram exame vestibular normal, enquanto os demais (56,6%) apresentaram alteração na prova calórica, com maior ocorrência de disfunção vestibular periférica seguida de disfunção vestibular periférica deficitária unilateral. Não houve diferença estatisticamente significante quanto à presença de alteração vestibular nem quanto à classificação dessas alterações. Comprovou-se significante diferença para queixa de tontura entre os gêneros, sendo o feminino mais propenso a apresentá-la. Não houve diferença estatisticamente significante quanto à queixa de tontura entre as faixas etárias avaliadas, havendo, entretanto, uma tendência maior para os indivíduos de idade mais elevada a apresentarem. Não houve relação estatisticamente significante entre disfunção vestibular e queixas de tontura, manifestações auditivas nem antecedentes patológicos. CONCLUSÕES: não foi encontrada uma relação estatisticamente relevante entre o grupo estudado e a alteração vestibular. Todavia, entre os bombeiros que apresentaram alteração, houve maior ocorrência de disfunção vestibular periférica ...

PURPOSES: to investigate the frequency of vestibular disorders in firefighters working in Alagoas and their complaints. METHODS: we performed otoneurologic interviews and audiological evaluation, discarding the sample subjects with abnormal results. The valid sample was underwent the maneuver Dix-Hallpike and vectoelectronystagmography. We used the Chi-square test and Fisher Exact test for statistical analysis, with significance level of 5% (p = 0.050). RESULTS: the sample consisted by 26 male (86.7%) and 4 female subjects (13.3%) with aged between 24 and 35 years. Of these, were found 43.4% results normal and 56.6% showed abnormalities in the caloric test, with a higher incidence of peripheral vestibular dysfunction followed by unilateral peripheral vestibular deficit dysfunction. There were no statistically significant differences in the presence of vestibular disorders or in the classification of these pathologies. Was perceived effective difference for dizziness between genders, with females more likely to present it. There was no statistically significant difference regarding dizziness between the age groups, with a tendency for older subjects present it more. There was no statistically significant relationship between vestibular disorder and complaints of dizziness, auditory manifestations or history of disease. CONCLUSIONS: there was a higher incidence of peripheral vestibular dysfunction followed by unilateral peripheral vestibular deficit dysfunction, without statistically significant difference between them. The examined firefighters complained of dizziness, auditory manifestations and pathological history, but without statistically significant relationship with vestibular disorders. .

Ataxia espinocerebelar tipo 6: relato de caso / Spinocerebellar ataxia type 6: a case report

O objetivo deste estudo foi verificar as alterações vestibulococleares observadas em um caso de ataxia espinocerebelar tipo 6. O caso foi encaminhado do Hospital de Clínicas para o Laboratório de Otoneurologia de uma Instituição de Ensino e foi submetido aos seguintes procedimentos: anamnese, inspeção otológica, avaliações audiológica e vestibular. O caso retrata uma paciente com diagnóstico genético de ataxia espinocerebelar tipo 6, do sexo feminino, com 57 anos de idade, que referiu desequilíbrio à marcha com tendência a queda para a esquerda, disartria e disfonia. Na avaliação audiológica apresentou configuração audiométrica descendente a partir da frequência de 4kHz e curva timpanométrica do tipo "A" com presença dos reflexos estapedianos bilateralmente. No exame vestibular observou-se na pesquisa da vertigem posicional presença de nistagmo vertical inferior e oblíquo, espontâneo e semiespontâneo múltiplo com características centrais (ausência de latência, paroxismo, fatigabilidade e vertigem), nistagmooptocinético abolido e hiporreflexia à prova calórica. Constataram-se alterações labirínticas que indicaram afecção do sistema vestibular central evidenciando-se a importância dessa avaliação. A existência da possível relação entre os achados com os sintomas vestibulares apresentados pela paciente apontou a relevância do exame labiríntico neste tipo de ataxia uma vez que a presença do nistagmo vertical inferior demonstrou ser frequente neste tipo de patologia.

The aim of this study was to investigate the vestibulocochlear alterations observed in a case of spinocerebellar ataxia type 6. The case was referred from the Hospital das Clinicas to the Otoneurology Laboratory of an educational institution and was subjected to the following procedures: anamnesis, otologic examination, as well as audiological and vestibular assessments. The case shows a 57-year-old female patient with a genetic diagnosis of spinocerebellar ataxia type 6 who presented unsteadiness of gait with tendency to fall to the left, dysarthria, and dysphonia. The audiological assessment presented sloping audiometric configuration from 4.0 kHz and tympanogram type “A” with the presence of acoustic reflexes bilaterally. Observed during the survey of positional vertigo in the vestibular assessment were the presence of oblique and vertical downbeat nystagmus, spontaneous and semispontaneous with multiple core features (absence of latency, paroxysm, fatigue and vertigo), abolished optokineticnystagmus and hyporeflexia in the caloric test. We found labyrinthic alterations that indicate central vestibular system disorders and lend credence to the importance of this evaluation. The existence of a possible relationship between the findings and vestibular symptoms displayed by the patient indicated the relevance of the labyrinthine evaluation for this type of ataxia once the presence of vertical downbeat nystagmus proved to be frequent in this type of pathology.

Vestibular Findings in Military Band Musicians

Introduction: Exposure to music is the subject of many studies because it is related to an individual's professional and social activities. Objectives: Evaluate the vestibular behavior in military band musicians. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was performed. Nineteen musicians with ages ranging from 21 to 46 years were evaluated (average = 33.7 years and standard deviation = 7.2 years). They underwent anamnesis and vestibular and otolaryngologic evaluation through vectoelectronystagmography. Results: The most evident otoneurologic symptoms in the anamnesis were tinnitus (84.2%), hearing difficulties (47.3%), dizziness (36.8%), headache (26.3%), intolerance to intense sounds (21.0%), and earache (15.7%). Seven musicians (37.0%) showed vestibular abnormality, which occurred in the caloric test. The abnormality was more prevalent in the peripheral vestibular system, and there was a predominance of irritative peripheral vestibular disorders. Conclusion: The alteration in vestibular exam occurred in the caloric test (37.0%). There were changes in the prevalence of peripheral vestibular system with a predominance of irritative vestibular dysfunction. Dizziness was the most significant symptom for the vestibular test in correlation with neurotologic symptoms. The present study made it possible to verify the importance of the labyrinthine test, which demonstrates that this population should be better studied because the systematic exposure to high sound pressure levels may cause major vestibular alterations...

Otoneurologic Findings in a Fishermen Population of the State of Santa Catarina: Preliminary Study

Introduction: Fishing, one of the oldest productive activities, is an important sector of the national and world economy. Aim: To evaluate the vestibular behavior in a population of fishermen. Methods: In a retrospective and cross-sectional study, 13 fishermen (mean 45.0), between 33 and 62 years of age, were submitted to anamnesis, otorhinolaryngological evaluation, and vestibular exam through the vector electronystagmography. Results: The most evident otoneurologic symptoms were hearing loss (76.9%), tinnitus (61.7%), dizziness (46.1%), and headache (46.1%). The most evident clinical symptoms were fatigue (46.1%), depression (23.0%), anxiety (15.3%), insomnia (7.7%), and agitation during sleep (7.7%). There were alterations in the vestibular exam in 5 fishermen (38.5%) discovered in the caloric test. There was a prevalence of alteration in the peripheral vestibular system. There was a major frequency of the peripheral vestibular irritative syndrome. Conclusion: The otoneurologic complaints were frequent in the population studied to verify the importance of allowing labyrinth exams and the need for adopting preventive measures relating to noise exposure as well as carbon monoxide exposure, because they can cause and/or enhance various manifestations of labyrinthine vestibular impairment that can affect the quality of life of these workers...

Reabilitação vestibular com realidade virtual na ataxia espinocerebelar / Vestibular rehabilitation with virtual reality in spinocerebellar ataxia

O objetivo do estudo foi verificar os benefícios da reabilitação vestibular (RV) com realidade virtual, por meio de avaliação pré e pós-aplicação da Escala de Equilíbrio de Berg (EEB), em quatro casos de ataxia espinocerebelar (AEC). Os casos foram submetidos aos seguintes procedimentos: anamnese, inspeção otológica, avaliação vestibular e aplicação da EEB pré e pós-RV, com a realidade virtual representada por meio da utilização de jogos do equipamento Wii Fit. Os casos retratam quatro pacientes com diagnóstico genético de AEC (dois tipo 2, um tipo 3 e um em investigação), sendo três do gênero feminino e um do gênero masculino, na faixa etária de 30 a 62 anos. Os pacientes referiram sintomas otoneurológicos e, no exame vestibular, observou-se a presença de nistagmo semiespontâneo com características centrais, ausência de nistagmo pós-rotatório, hiporreflexia e preponderância direcional do nistagmo assimétrica à prova calórica. Nos casos 1 e 2, os pacientes referiram melhora na coordenação dos movimentos e do equilíbrio corporal, independente do escore na EEB ter demonstrado médio risco para queda, antes e após a realização dos exercícios. No caso 3, o paciente apresentou melhora do escore na EEB, bem como do equilíbrio, apresentando baixo risco para queda. O caso 4 não evidenciou melhora na avaliação após a execução dos exercícios. Este estudo de caso demonstrou a possibilidade da aplicação dos exercícios de RV com estímulos virtuais na AEC, com melhora da coordenação motora e do equilíbrio postural.

The purpose of this study was to verify the benefits of the vestibular rehabilitation (VR) with virtual reality through the assessment before and after the application of the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) in four cases of spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA). The cases were underwent the following procedures: anamnesis, ear inspection, vestibular assessment and application of the BBS before and after VR with virtual reality using games from Wii Fit device. The cases describe four patients that were diagnosed with genetically inherited SCA (two type 2, one type 3 and one still under investigation), three of them were female and one was male, with ages ranging from 30 to 62 years. The patients presented otoneurological symptoms and the vestibular test showed the presence of semi-spontaneous nystagmus, absence of post-rotational nystagmus, hyporeflexia, and asymmetric directional preponderance of the nystagmus in the caloric test. Patients from cases 1 and 2 have showed an improvement in motor coordination and in body balance, even though the score presented by the BBS had demonstrated medium risk for falling before and after the exercises. In case 3, the patient's loss of balance and BBS score have improved, presenting low risk of falling; whereas the patient in case 4 did not show any improvement in the assessment after the exercises. This case study shows the applicability of VR exercises with virtual stimuli in SCA with improved motor coordination and postural balance.

Função vestibular no acidente vascular cerebral do território carotídeo / Vestibular function in carotid territory stroke patients

Pacientes após Acidente Vascular Cerebral (AVC) podem apresentar sintomas otoneurológicos. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a função vestibular de pacientes com antecedente pessoal de AVC no território carotídeo. Desenho científico: estudo de coorte histórica com corte transversal. MÉTODO: Quarenta pacientes foram submetidos à anamnese, exame otorrinolaringológico, Dizziness Handicap Inventory e vectoeletronistagmografia. RESULTADOS: Anormalidades discretas dos movimentos sacádicos foram encontradas em 20 pacientes (50,0%); nove referiram desequilíbrio e um tontura. O ganho do rastreio pendular foi anormal em 17 casos (42,5%); seis referiram desequilíbrio e um tontura. Preponderância direcional anormal do nistagmoperrotatório ocorreu em dois casos (5,0%), que referiram desequilíbrio. A prova calórica identificou três casos (7,5%) com predomínio labiríntico anormal e dois (5,0%) com preponderância direcional anormal do nistagmo; os cinco casos relataram desequilíbrio. Dos 11 pacientes que não referiram manifestações de alteração do equilíbrio corporal, 10 apresentaram alterações nos movimentos sacádicos e no rastreio pendular e um apresentou exame vestibular normal. CONCLUSÃO: Pacientes com antecedente pessoal de AVC no território carotídeo podem apresentar tontura ou desequilíbrio corporal e sinais de comprometimento da motilidade ocular e da função vestibular.

Stroke patients may present otoneurological symptoms. OBJECTIVE: To assess the vestibular function of subjects with a history of carotid territory stroke. METHOD: This historical cohort cross sectional study enrolled 40 patients; subjects answered the Dizziness Handicap Inventory, were interviewed and submitted to ENT examination and vectorelectronystagmography. RESULTS: Mild saccadic movement anomalies were seen in 20 patients (50.0%); nine complained of imbalance and dizziness. Abnormal smooth pursuit gain was seen in 17 cases (42.5%); six subjects reported imbalance and one complained of dizziness. Abnormal directional preponderance during rotational nystagmus was seen in two cases (5.0%), who also reported imbalance. Three patients (7.5%) and two subjects (5.0%) were found to have abnormal labyrinthine predominance and abnormal nystagmus directional preponderance respectively; all five individuals reported imbalance. Ten of the 11 patients without complaints of disordered balance had altered saccadic and smooth pursuit eye movements, while one had unaltered vestibular function. CONCLUSION: Patients with a history of carotid territory stroke may suffer from dizziness or imbalance and present signs of compromised eye motility and vestibular function.

Estimulação calórica a ar em mastoidectomias abertas unilaterais / Air caloric test in canal wall down mastoidectomy

Poucos trabalhos desde a década de 70 foram realizados a fim de elucidar a prova calórica em alterações da orelha média, apesar de inúmeras controvérsias que este exame pode trazer em estruturas anatômicas tão distintas. Na mastoidectomia radical, estes estudos são mais escassos. OBJETIVO: Este estudo teve como objetivo analisar os achados da estimulação calórica a ar em indivíduos com mastoidectomia radical unilateral sem queixas de tontura. MATERIAL E MÉTODO: Estudo prospectivo, realização da estimulação calórica a ar em 36 indivíduos sem queixas vestibulares, sendo 21 com cirurgia de mastoidectomia aberta unilateral e 15 sem nenhuma alteração na orelha média ou externa. RESULTADOS: 80,95% dos indivíduos apresentaram respostas assimétricas na prova calórica frias, sendo as respostas maiores do lado da mastoidectomia aberta. Em 72,73%, o mesmo efeito ocorreu com a prova calórica quente. Na análise das quatro estimulações, encontrou-se assimetria das provas quente e frias em 81,82% dos casos. Em 47,61%, foi encontrada estimulação paradoxal da prova calórica quente. CONCLUSÃO:As respostas nistágmicas do lado da mastoidectomia aberta foram maiores se comparadas com o lado saudável. A estimulação paradoxal da prova calórica quente foi um achado frequente. Não foram encontradas respostas hipofuncionantes.

Since the 1970s, few studies have been conducted to elucidate the use of caloric tests on middle ear disorders, despite the many controversies that this test may produce in anatomical structures that are so distinct. In cases of mastoidectomy, such studies are even rarer. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to analyze the findings from air caloric stimulation done in individuals submitted to unilateral radical mastoidectomy without complaints of dizziness. MATERIALS AND METHOD: Thirty-six individuals without vestibular complaints were enrolled in this prospective study. Air caloric stimulation was offered to all subjects. Twenty-one individuals had undergone unilateral open mastoidectomy and 15 did not present any middle or outer ear abnormalities. RESULTS: 80.95% of the individuals presented asymmetrical responses in the cold caloric test, with greater response on the side of the open mastectomy. In 72.73% of the subjects the same effect was observed in the hot caloric test. The four stimulation modes revealed asymmetries in both hot and cold tests in 81.82% of the cases. Paradoxical stimulation was observed in 47.61% of hot caloric tests. CONCLUSION: Nystagmic responses on the side of the open mastoidectomy were greater than on the healthy side. Paradoxical stimulation in caloric tests was a frequent finding. No hypofunctioning responses were found.

Correlação entre resultado do exame vestibular e queixas psicológicas autorrelatadas de pacientes com sintomas vestibulares / Correlation between vestibular test results and self-reported psychological complaints of patients with vestibular symptoms

Fatores cognitivos e emocionais podem afetar o equilíbrio, portanto, condições psiquiátricas são comuns em pacientes otoneurológicos. O tratamento dado ao sujeito vertiginoso pode ser mais influenciado pelo sofrimento e comportamento da doença do que pela gravidade da patologia orgânica. OBJETIVO: Este estudo teve como objetivo verificar a associação entre os resultados do exame vestibular e queixa psicológica autorrelatada, em indivíduos atendidos no ano de 2009, no serviço de audiologia de um hospital em Porto Alegre. MATERIAL E MÉTODO: Foi realizado um estudo retrospectivo, descritivo-exploratório, consultando-se a base de dados dos softwares VecWin® e VecWin® 2 da marca Neurograff®. Foram investigados os resultados do exame vestibular, as queixas referentes aos sintomas psicológicos relatados espontaneamente e idade, sexo e queixa de vertigem e/ou tontura. O trabalho foi realizado em três etapas: agrupamento, exclusão/inclusão e quantificação. CONCLUSÃO: A faixa etária da amostra, o sexo e a presença ou ausência de vertigem e/ou tontura não foram variáveis de influência sobre o resultado do exame vestibular. Houve associação significativa entre a presença de queixa psicológica autorrelatada e o resultado normal do exame vestibular. Assim, é fundamental que os profissionais deem atenção às questões psicológicas relatadas pelo indivíduo na ocasião da anamnese vestibular.

Cognitive and emotional factors may affect balance; psychiatric conditions are a common component in patient dizziness. The treatment of patients with vertigo may be affected to a greater degree by the suffering due to this disease than by the severity of organic changes. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate associations between vestibular test results and self-reported psychological complaints in patients evaluated during 2009 in an audiology unit at a hospital in Porto Alegre. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective, descriptive-exploratory study of data taken from a database of the software VecWin® and VecWin® 2, developed by Neurograff®. We investigated vestibular test results, reports of psychological symptoms reported spontaneously, and information such as age, sex and the presence of vertigo and/or dizziness. This study consisted of three steps: clustering, exclusion/inclusion and quantification. CONCLUSION: Age and gender and the presence or absence of vertigo and/or dizziness were not variables that influenced the outcomes of vestibular testing. There was a significant association between the presence of self-reported psychological complaints and normal vestibular test results. Thus, it is crucial that professionals pay attention to psychological issues reported by patients when the vestibular history is taken.

Relación entre las fracturas de base craneal y la electronistagmografía / Relation between the cranial base and the electro-nystagmography

Introducción: la electronistagmografía se usa en la actualidad con fines de diagnóstico, es el proceso por el cual se hace un registro de la posición y movimiento del globo ocular, para identificar cambios en el campo eléctrico alrededor del ojo al modificar su posición. Objetivo: evaluar la utilidad de la electronistagmografía, al compararla con la prueba vestibular tradicional para el diagnóstico topográfico de las secuelas audiológicas vestibulares presentes en pacientes con fractura de base craneal. Métodos: se realizó un estudio observacional, analítico, de corte transversal, en el Hospital Militar Dr Carlos Juan Finlay, en el período comprendido de enero de 2006 a enero de 2008. El universo estuvo representado por 210 pacientes, divididos en 2 grupos: uno de estudio con secuelas auditivas vestibulares posteriores a fractura de base de cráneo, y otro de control, con sujetos sanos. Resultados: el síntoma que se encontró en el 100 por ciento de los pacientes fue el vértigo. Del total de 118 casos con electronistagmografía positiva, 47 (39,8 por ciento) habían arrojado resultados negativos en la prueba vestibular. Conclusiones: la electronistagmografía resultó positiva en el mayor número de casos estudiados, y presentó una alta sensibilidad, al demostrar, que casos con debilidad laberíntica y preponderancia direccional presentes, no fueron diagnosticados con la prueba vestibular tradicional(AU)

Introduction: nowadays, the electro-nystagmography is used for diagnosis; it is the process by which it is possible to register the position and movement of ocular eyeball to identify the changes in the electric field around the eye in modifying its position. Objective: to assess the usefulness of the electro-nystagmography in comparison with the traditional vestibular test for topographic diagnosis of auditory sequelae present in the patients presenting with cranial base fracture. Methods: a cross-sectional, analytical and observational study was conducted in the Dr Carlos J Finlay Military Hospital from January, 2006 to January, 2008. Universe included 210 patients divided into two groups: a study group with vestibular auditory sequealae after a fracture of cranial base and a control group consisting of healthy subjects. Results: dizziness was the symptom present in the 100 percent of patients. From the total of 118 cases with positive electro-nystagmography, 47 (39.8 percent) had negative results in the vestibular test. Conclusions: the electro-nystagmography was positive en most of study cases with a high sensitivity demonstrating that cases presenting with labyrinth weakness and directional predominance were not diagnosed by means of traditional vestibular test(AU)

Electronystagmography findings in spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 (SCA3) and type 2 (SCA2) / Eletronistagmografia em ataxia espinocerebelar do tipo 3 (SCA3) e do tipo 2 (SCA2)

OBJECTIVE: To describe the alterations observed in electronystagmography (ENG) of patients with spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA) types 2 and 3. METHOD: Sixteen patients were studied and the following procedures were carried out: anamnesis, otorhinolaryngological and vestibular evaluations. RESULTS: The clinical findings in the entire group of patients were: gait disturbances (93.75 percent), dysarthria (43.75 percent), headache (43.75 percent), dizziness (37.50 percent) and dysphagia (37.50 percent). In the vestibular exam, the rotatory (62.50 percent) and caloric (75 percent) tests were among those which presented the largest indexes of abnormalities; the presence of alterations in the exams was 87.50 percent, with a predominance of central vestibular disorders in 68.75 percent of the exams. CONCLUSION: Vestibular exams could be an auxiliary tool to investigate SCAs, besides a precise clinical approach and, particularly, molecular genetic tests.

OBJETIVO: Verificar as alterações do exame de eletronistagmografia (ENG) em pacientes com ataxia espinocerebelar (AEC) tipos 2 e 3. MÉTODO: 16 pacientes foram estudados, com a utilização dos seguintes procedimentos: anamnese, avaliação otorrinolaringológica e avaliação vestibular. RESULTADOS: As principais queixas encontradas na anamnese foram, desequilíbrio na marcha (93,75 por cento), dificuldades da fala (43,75 por cento), cefaleia (43,75 por cento), tontura (37,50 por cento) e disfagia (37,50 por cento). No exame vestibular, o teste rotatório e o teste calórico apresentaram os maiores índices de anormalidades, respectivamente, 62,50 por cento e 75 por cento, com a predominância de distúrbio vestibular do tipo central em 68,75 por cento dos casos. CONCLUSÃO: O exame vestibular pode ser um exame auxiliar na investigação das AECs, junto com a avaliação clínica precisa e, particularmente, com os testes de genética molecular.

Achados vestibulares em pacientes portadores de fibromialgia / Vestibular findings in fibromyalgia patients

INTRODUÇÃO: A fibromialgia (FM) é uma síndrome musculoesquelética não inflamatória, de caráter crônico, de etiologia desconhecida, caracterizada por dor difusa, aumento da sensibilidade na palpação e por sintomas como fadiga, insônia, ansiedade, depressão, intolerância ao frio e queixas otológicas. OBJETIVO: Avaliar o comportamento vestibular em pacientes portadores de fibromialgia. MÉTODO: Foi realizado um estudo retrospectivo de corte transversal. Avaliaram-se 25 pacientes na faixa etária entre 26 e 65 anos (média de idade - 52,2 anos e desvio padrão - 10,3 anos), submetidos aos seguintes procedimentos: anamnese, avaliação otorrinolaringológica e vestibular por meio da vectoeletronistagmografia. RESULTADOS: a) Os sintomas otoneurológicos mais evidenciados foram: dificuldade ou dor ao movimento do pescoço e dor irradiada para ombro ou braço (92,0 por cento) em cada, tontura (84,0 por cento) e cefaleia (76,0 por cento). Os sintomas clínicos diversos mais relatados foram: depressão (80,0 por cento), ansiedade (76,0 por cento) e insônia (72,0 por cento); b) O exame vestibular esteve alterado em 12 pacientes (48,0 por cento) sendo localizado na prova calórica; c) Houve prevalência de alteração no sistema vestibular periférico e, d) Houve predomínio das disfunções vestibulares periféricas deficitárias. CONCLUSÃO: Este estudo permitiu verificar a importância do exame labiríntico o que ressalta que esse tipo de população deveria ser melhor estudada, uma vez que diversas doenças reumatológicas pelas suas manifestações e áreas de comprometimento podem gerar alterações vestibulares importantes.

INTRODUCTION: Fibromyalgia (FM) is a non-inflammatory musculoskeletal chronic syndrome, whose etiology is unknown, characterized by a diffuse pain, increase in palpation sensitivity and such symptoms as tiredness, insomnia, anxiety, depression, cold intolerance and otologic complaints. OBJECTIVE: Evaluate the vestibular behavior in fibromyalgia patients. METHOD: A retrospective transversal study was performed. 25 patients aged between 26 and 65 (average age - 52. 2 and standard deviation - 10. 3) were evaluated and submitted to the following procedures: anamnesis, otorhinolaryngologic and vestibular evaluation by way of vector electronystamography. RESULTS: a) The most evident otoneurologic symptoms were: difficulty or pain when moving the neck and pain was spread to an arm or shoulder (92. 0 percent) in each, dizziness (84. 0 percent) and headache (76. 0 percent). The different clinical symptoms mostly reported were: depression (80. 0 percent), anxiety (76. 0 percent) and insomnia (72. 0 percent); b) vestibular examination showed an alteration in 12 patients (48. 0 percent) in the caloric test; c) an alteration in the peripheral vestibular system prevailed, and d) deficient peripheral vestibular disorders were prevalent. CONCLUSION: This study enabled the importance of the labyrinthic test to be verified, thus emphasizing that this kind of people must be studied better, since a range of rheumatologic diseases can cause severe vestibular changes as a result of their manifestations and impairment areas.

Ataxia espinocerebelar tipo 7 / Spinocerebellar ataxia type 7

O objetivo deste estudo foi verificar possíveis alterações vestibulococleares em um caso de ataxia espinocerebelar tipo 7. O paciente foi encaminhado para o Laboratório de Otoneurologia da Universidade Tuiuti do Paraná e foi submetido aos seguintes procedimentos: anamnese, inspeção otológica, avaliações audiológica e vestibular. Trata-se de indivíduo do gênero feminino, de 34 anos de idade, com diagnóstico genético de ataxia espinocerebelar tipo 7, que referiu desequilíbrio à marcha, dificuldade para falar, cefaléia, tontura e disfagia. Em avaliação audiológica, apresentou limiares auditivos dentro dos padrões de normalidade e curva timpanométrica do tipo "A" com presença dos reflexos estapedianos bilateralmente. No exame vestibular, observou-se presença de nistagmos espontâneo e semi-espontâneo com características centrais, nistagmo optocinético e rastreio pendular alterados e hiperreflexia à prova calórica. Constatamos alterações labirínticas que indicam afecção do sistema vestibular central e evidenciam a importância dessa avaliação. A existência da possível relação entre os achados com os sintomas otoneurológicos apresentados pela paciente nos remete a uma nova questão, ou seja, à importância da aplicabilidade dos exercícios de reabilitação que atuam em estruturas centrais de neuroplasticidade. Eles aceleram e estimulam mecanismos naturais de compensação, que poderão proporcionar ao portador de ataxia um melhor desempenho de suas funções.

The aim of this study was to verify the possible alterations observed in a case of spinocerebellar ataxia type 7. The patient was referred to the Laboratory of Neurotology of Universidade Tuiuti do Paraná (Brazil), and was submitted to the following procedures: anamnesis, otoscopy, auditory and vestibular assessments. The case described is a 34-year-old woman with a genetic diagnosis of spinocerebellar ataxia type 7, who referred imbalance when walking, speech difficulties, headache, dizziness, and dysphagia. The audiological evaluation showed normal hearing thresholds and tympanometric curve type "A", with bilateral presence of stapedius reflex. In the vestibular evaluation, it was observed the presence of spontaneous and gaze nystagmus with central characteristics, altered optokinetic nystagmus and pendular tracking, and hyperreflexia during the caloric test. Labyrinth alterations were found, indicating central vestibular system affection and evidencing the importance of this evaluation. The existence of a possible relationship between the findings and the neurotological symptoms presented by the patient leads us to a new issue, that is, the importance of the applicability of rehabilitation exercises that act in central structures of neuroplasticity. These exercises accelerate and stimulate natural compensation mechanisms, which may provide the patient with ataxia a better performance of its functions.