Efetividade da reabilitação vestibular no equilíbrio, tontura, funcionalidade e sintomas depressivos em idosos / Effectiveness of vestibular rehabilitation on balance, dizziness, functioning, and depressive symptoms in older adults

RESUMO Objetivo Avaliar a efetividade da reabilitação vestibular na funcionalidade, ganho dos canais semicirculares ao Video Head Impulse Test (v-HIT), nas respostas ao Potencial Evocado Miogênico Vestibular (VEMP), sintomas depressivos, equilíbrio e tontura em idosos. Métodos Estudo longitudinal, quase experimental e analítico, realizado entre dezembro de 2019 e julho de 2022, com 50 idosos com disfunção vestibular, submetidos à reabilitação vestibular e à aplicação dos exames VEMP, v-HIT, dos questionários e escalas Escala Visual Analógica, Dizziness Handicap Inventory e Escala de Equilíbrio de Berg, além do Questionário de Atividades Funcionais de Pfeffer e Escala de Depressão Geriátrica. Todos os exames e questionários foram aplicados antes e após oito sessões semanais de reabilitação vestibular. A análise estatística foi realizada pelo programa SPSS, por meio do teste Wilcoxon (p<0,05). Resultados Observou-se melhora do ganho do canal semicircular anterior direito (0,71/0,78), redução do incômodo da tontura (7/5), do impacto da tontura na qualidade de vida (35/15), melhora do equilíbrio (45/51), além de melhora da funcionalidade (2/1) e redução dos sintomas depressivos (5/3). Conclusão Idosos com disfunção vestibular submetidos à reabilitação vestibular apresentaram melhora do ganho do reflexo vestíbulo-ocular, do equilíbrio, da funcionalidade, redução do impacto da tontura na qualidade de vida e dos sintomas depressivos.

ABSTRACT Purpose To assess the effectiveness of vestibular rehabilitation on functioning, gains in semicircular canals in the Video Head Impulse Test (v-HIT), on responses to the vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (VEMP), depressive symptoms, balance, and dizziness in older adults. Methods Longitudinal, quasi-experimental, analytical study conducted between December 2019 and July 2022, in 50 older adults with vestibular disorders, submitted to vestibular rehabilitation and examinations: VEMP, v-HIT, the questionnaires, visual analog scale, Dizziness Handicap Inventory, Berg Balance Scale, Pfeffer's Functional Activities Questionnaire, and Geriatric Depression Scale. All examinations and questionnaires were applied before and after eight weekly vestibular rehabilitation sessions. Statistical analysis was performed in SPSS, with the Wilcoxon test (p<0.05). Results There was a gain in the anterior right semicircular canal (0.71/0.78), reduction in dizziness discomfort (7/5) and in the impact of dizziness on the quality of life (35/15), improvement in balance (45/51) and functioning (2/1), and reduction in depressive symptoms (5/3). Conclusion Older adults with vestibular disorder submitted to vestibular rehabilitation improved their gain in vestibulo-ocular reflex, balance, and functional activities and reduced their depressive symptoms and the impact of dizziness on their quality of life.

Potencial miogênico evocado vestibular cervical em crianças e adolescentes com aqueduto vestibular alargado: revisão sistemática / Cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potential in children and adolescents with enlarged vestibular aqueduct: systematic review

RESUMO Objetivo Reunir os parâmetros encontrados no potencial miogênico evocado vestibular cervical (cVEMP) em crianças e adolescentes com síndrome do aqueduto vestibular alargado (SAVA) e identificar as possíveis alterações, quando comparados aos valores encontrados em normo-ouvintes da mesma faixa etária. Estratégia de pesquisa Revisão sistemática cadastrada na base PROSPERO, elaborada por meio de busca nos bancos de dados virtuais, a partir dos unitermos selecionados. Critérios de seleção Incluídos artigos científicos disponíveis na íntegra que relataram a avaliação com o uso do cVEMP na faixa etária entre 0 e 18 anos, com diagnóstico de SAVA, sem restrição de idioma e ano de publicação; excluídos estudos em paciente com algum distúrbio, outras patologias otoneurológicas e população fora da faixa etária estimada. Resultados Foram identificados 984 registros, a partir da pesquisa nas bases de dados consultadas e selecionados 5 artigos. Em um total de 133 pacientes que realizaram o cVEMP, foi observada presença de resposta na maioria dos casos, sem diferença significativa nas latências, mas com aumento na amplitude e diminuição nos limiares do cVEMP. Conclusão O teste cVEMP é recomendado na avaliação de crianças e adolescentes com SAVA e as características de aumento na amplitude e diminuição nos limiares podem ser utilizadas como parâmetros clínicos na identificação da referida síndrome, juntamente com a história clínica do paciente e os exames de imagem. No entanto, é imprescindível a realização de mais estudos com o exame cVEMP, ainda, em crianças e adolescentes com SAVA, para a melhor padronização dos valores encontrados, a fim de efetivar o diagnóstico correto.

ABSTRACT Purpose To gather the parameters found in the cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potential (cVEMP) in children and adolescents with enlarged vestibular aqueduct syndrome (SAVA) and identify the possible changes, when compared to the values found in normal hearing people of the same age group. Research strategy Systematic review registered in the PROSPERO database, prepared through a search in virtual databases, based on the selected keywords. Selection criteria Included scientific articles available in full that reported the evaluation using cVEMP in the 0 and 18 years old group , with a diagnosis of SAVA, without restrictions of language and year of publication; Studies on patients with any disorder other than otoneurological ones and populations outside the proposed age range were excluded. Results 984 records were identified from the search in the databases consulted and 5 articles were selected. In a total of 133 patients who underwent cVEMP, the presence of a response was observed in most cases, with no significant difference in latencies, but with an increase in amplitude and a decrease in cVEMP thresholds. Conclusion The cVEMP test is recommended in the evaluation of children and adolescents with SAVA and the characteristics of increase in amplitude and decrease in thresholds can be used as clinical parameters in the identification of this syndrome, together with the patient's clinical history and imaging exams. However, it is essential to carry out more studies with the cVEMP test, also in children and adolescents with SAVA, to better standardize the values found, in order to make the correct diagnosis.

Correlation between cervical vertigo and vestibular function evaluated by vestibular evoked myogenic potentials / 中国骨伤

OBJECTIVE@#To analyze the relationship between cervical vertigo and vestibular function evaluated by vestibular evoked myogenic potentials(VEMPs) and analyze the correlations between cervical vertigo and vestibular dysfunction, discuss the related factors of cervical vertigo and guide the clinical treatment of patients with cervical vertigo.@*METHODS@#A total of 75 patients with cervical vertigo as the main complaint in the outpatient clinic of the Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University from August 2019 to July 2020 were set as the diseased group, and 60 patients without cervical and vestibular related diseases in the hospital were selected to set as non-diseased group. The age of diseased group was 12 to 70 years with an average of (46.40±10.91) years, including 25 males and 50 females;and the age of non-diseased group was 22 to 60 years with an average of(43.78±7.75) years, including 19 males and 51 females. VEMPs were performed in the two groups. The data of VEMPs were collected and the results were compared and analyzed. The patients with abnormal cervical myogenic vestibular evoked myogenic potential (cVEMP) were divided into light, moderate and severe groups. The correlation between VEMPs and cervical vertigo and its severity were analyzed by statistical method.@*RESULTS@#(1)The severity of cervical vertigo in diseased group:33 cases of mild, 34 cases of moderate, 8 cases of severe; cVEMP examination:62 cases were positive and 13 cases were negative, including 13 cases of mild, 33 cases of moderate, 16 cases of severe. The cVEMP of non-diseased group:4 cases were positive and 56 cases were negative.(2) The level of cVEMP in diseased group was higher than that in non-diseased group (P<0.001). It can be considered that there was a correlation between cervical vertigo and vestibular function.(3)The correlation between the level of cVEMP and the level of cervical vertigo in diseased group was analyzed. The Spearman rank sum test was used, and the correlation coefficient was 0.687, which was statistically significant (P<0.05). And it can be considered that the two indicators have a high degree of correlation.@*CONCLUSION@#It is feasible to evaluate the relationship between cervical vertigo and vestibular function by VEMPs. For patients with cervical vertigo, the higher the severity, the greater the positive rate of VEMPs, which indicates that it has a greater impact on vestibular function. The treatment of patients with cervical vertigo should be the combination of cervical rehabilitation and vestibular function.

Vestibular status in partial deafness / Condição vestibular na surdez parcial

Abstract Introduction The hair cells of the cochlea and the vestibulum are closely connected and may be susceptible to the same noxious factors. The relationship between their function has been a continuing field of investigation. The indications for cochlear implantation have been broadened and now include the patients with partial deafness. This raises the question of their vestibular status. Objective The aim of the study was to investigate whether there is any difference between the vestibular function of patients with low frequency residual hearing and those with totally deaf ears. Methods A total of 360 ears with profound sensorineural hearing loss were analysed before cochlear implantation. The patients were divided into four groups, according to their low frequency residual hearing (Group 1 ‒ normal or slightly elevated low frequency residual hearing; Group 2 ‒ elevated threshold but still usable hearing at low frequencies; Group 3 - non-functional residual hearing; Group 4 ‒ no detectable hearing threshold within the limits of the audiometer). The patients underwent vestibular tests: cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potential, ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potential, caloric test and video-head impulse test. Results The rates of elicited responses in cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potential were as follows: in Group 1 (59.3 %); Group 2 (57.5 %); Group 3 (35.2 %); Group 4 (7.7 %). For ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potential the percentage of correct outcomes was: Group 1 (70.8 %); Group 2 (56.0 %); Group 3 (40.0 %); Group 4 (14.3 %). For the caloric test we counted normal responses in 88.9 % of Group 1; 81.6 % of Group 2; 57.9 % of Group 3; 53.3 % of Group 4. For video-head impulse test we also found markedly better results in Group1, followed by Group 2, and much worse in Group 3 and 4. Conclusion Patients with partial deafness not only have a better cochlea but also better vestibular function, which needs to be protected. In summary, the better the low frequency residual hearing, the better the vestibular status.

Resumo Introdução As células ciliadas da cóclea e do vestíbulo estão intimamente ligadas e podem ser suscetíveis aos mesmos fatores nocivos. A relação entre suas funções tem sido um campo de investigação há muito tempo. As indicações para implante coclear foram ampliadas e agora incluem os pacientes com surdez parcial. Isso levanta a questão de sua condição vestibular. Objetivo Investigar se existe alguma diferença entre a função vestibular de pacientes com audição residual de baixa frequência e aqueles com surdez total. Método Foram analisadas antes do implante coclear 360 orelhas com perda auditiva neurossensorial profunda. Os pacientes foram divididos em quatro grupos, de acordo com a audição residual de baixa frequência (Grupo 1 - audição residual de baixa frequência normal ou levemente elevada; Grupo 2 - limiar auditivo elevado, mas ainda usável em baixas frequências; Grupo 3 - audição residual não funcional; Grupo 4 - sem limiar auditivo detectável dentro dos limites do audiômetro). Os pacientes foram submetidos a testes vestibulares: potencial evocado miogênico vestibular cervical, potencial evocado miogênico vestibular ocular, prova calórica e teste do impulso cefálico com vídeo. Resultados As taxas de respostas obtidas no potencial evocado miogênico vestibular cervical foram as seguintes: no Grupo 1 (59,3%); Grupo 2 (57,5%); Grupo 3 (35,2%); Grupo 4 (7,7%). Para o potencial evocado miogênico vestibular ocular, o percentual de resultados corretos foi: Grupo 1 (70,8%); Grupo 2 (56,0%); Grupo 3 (40,0%); Grupo 4 (14,3%). Para a prova calórica, contamos respostas normais em 88,9% do Grupo 1; 81,6% do grupo 2; 57,9% do Grupo 3; 53,3% do Grupo 4. Para o teste do impulso cefálico com vídeo, também encontramos resultados significativamente melhores no Grupo 1, seguidos pelo Grupo 2, e muito piores nos Grupos 3 e 4. Conclusão Pacientes com surdez parcial não só apresentam uma função coclear melhor, mas também melhor função vestibular, que precisa ser protegida. Em resumo, quanto melhor for a audição residual de baixa frequência, melhor a condição vestibular.

Análise das respostas do VEMP cervical e ocular em indivíduos hígidos / Analysis of cervical and ocular VEMP responses in healthy individuals / Análisis de las respuestas VEMP cervicales y oculares en individuos sanos

Introdução: os potenciais evocados miogênicos vestibulares (VEMP) são respostas eletrofisiológicas que conseguem fornecer informações dos órgãos otolíticos sáculo, utrículo e do nervo vestibular. O VEMP é um exame complementar à avaliação vestibular, consistindo num exame rápido, de fácil aplicação e objetivo. Objetivo: analisar os parâmetros de latência, amplitude, limiar e índice de assimetria das respostas do VEMP cervical (cVEMP) e ocular (oVEMP) de indivíduos sem queixas vestibulares. Métodos: estudo transversal realizado com 53 indivíduos de ambos os sexos, sem queixas auditivas e vestibulares. Resultados: encontrou-se simetria de respostas nas latências, amplitudes e limiares de respostas do exame cVEMP. Entretanto, verificou-se diferença entre orelhas da latência P15 do exame oVEMP, sendo maior à direita no sexo feminino. Conclusão: Encontrou-se simetria nas respostas de todos os parâmetros avaliados do cVEMP. Houve assimetria apenas na latência de P15 do oVEMP no sexo feminino. Os limiares de resposta encontrados nos exames cVEMP e oVEMP foram iguais ou maiores que 75 dBNA.

Introduction: Vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (VEMP) are electrophysiological responses that can provide information on the otolithic organs saccule, utricle and of the vestibular nerve. VEMP is a complementary exam to the vestibular assessment; it is a quick exam, easy to apply and objective. Purpose: to analyze the parameters of latency, amplitude, threshold and asymmetry index of the cervical (cVEMP) and ocular VEMP (oVEMP) responses of individuals without vestibular complaints. Methods: cross-sectional study carried out with 53 individuals of both genders without hearing and vestibular complaints. Results: response symmetry was found in the latencies, amplitudes and thresholds of cVEMP test responses. However, there was a difference between the ears of the P15 latency of the oVEMP exam, and this was greater on the right ear in females. Conclusion: symmetry was found in the responses of all cVEMP evaluated parameters. There was asymmetry in oVEMP P15 latency only in female patients. The response thresholds found in the cVEMP and oVEMP tests were equal or greater than 75 dBHL.

Introducción: los potenciales miogénicos evocados vestibulares (VEMP) son respuestas electrofisiológicas que pueden proporcionar información sobre los órganos otolíticos el sáculo, el utrículo y el nervio vestibular. El VEMP es un examen complementario a la evaluación vestibular; es un examen rápido, fácil de aplicar y objetivo. Objetivo: analizar los parámetros de latencia, amplitud, umbral e índice de asimetría de las respuestas VEMP cervical (cVEMP) y ocular (oVEMP) de individuos sin quejas vestibulares. Métodos: estudio transversal realizado con 53 individuos de ambos sexos, sin quejas auditivas y vestibulares. Resultados: Se encontró simetría de respuestas en las latencias, amplitudes y umbrales de respuestas en el examen cVEMP. Sin embargo, hubo una diferencia entre los oídos de la latencia P15 del examen oVEMP, siendo mayor a la derecha en el sexo femenino . Conclusión: se encontró simetría en las respuestas de todos los parámetros evaluados de cVEMP. Hubo asimetría solo en la latencia P15 de oVEMP en el sexo femenino. Los umbrales de respuesta encontrados en las pruebas cVEMP y oVEMP fueron iguales o superiores a 75 dBHL.

Clinical features of vestibular syncope associated with tumarkin attacks in delayed endolymphatic hydrops / 中华耳鼻咽喉头颈外科杂志

Objective: To analyze the clinical characteristics of vestibular syncope (VS) associated with drop attacks (DA) in delayed endolymphatic hydrops (DEH). Methods: DEH cases with complete data were retrospectively analyzed, including three DEH cases with DA and VS (VS group), and six DEH cases without DA or VS (control group). The clinical profile, the results of neurotological examinations [such as pure tone audiometry, electrocochleography (EcochG), caloric test, vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (VEMP), and video head impulse test (vHIT)] and treatment outcomes were analyzed. Results: (1) In the VS group, there were three cases of ipsilateral DEH; in the control group, there were six cases of ipsilateral type. One case in each group had a history of migraine. (2) The prevalence of abnormal results in caloric test, vHIT, cervical VEMP, and ocular VEMP in the VS group was 3/3, 1/3, 2/2, and 2/2, respectively, and in the control group was 3/6, 0/3, 1/6, and 4/6, respectively. Two cases in each group underwent EcochG, and no identifiable waveform was elicited on the affected side, and-SP/AP ratio of unaffected side was less than 0.4. (3) Patients in both groups were initially treated with conservative medication. Two cases in the VS group subsequently received intratympanic injections of dexamethasone. No DA or VS occurred during a follow-up period lasting over one year. All patients achieved good control of vertigo during the follow-up period. Conclusions: VS may occur in the patients with DEH. The differential diagnosis of syncope in patients with otogenic vertiginous disease can help improve clinical diagnosis and treatment.

Cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potentials and video head impulse test in Ménière disease / Potencial evocado miogênico vestibular cervical e teste de impulso cefálico por vídeo na doença de Ménière

Abstract Introduction: Ménière's disease is among the most frequent causes of vestibular disorders. Although it is a clinical diagnosis, a better understanding of the pathophysiology and clinical course of the disease through tests would allow improvement in the prognosis and more effective treatments. Objectives: To describe the results of the cervical vestibular evoked myogenic and video head impulse test in patients with a defined diagnosis of Ménière's disease and to correlate them with disease duration. Methods: The sample consisted of 50 participants, of whom 29 comprised the study group and 21 the control group. The individuals were submitted to a questionnaire, otoscopy, audiometry and vestibular function assessment through the cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potential and video head impulse test. Results: For the video head impulse test, lateral canal gain values below 0.77 were considered abnormal and for the vertical channels, below 0.61. The percentages of normality were 82.76% for lateral, 89.65% for posterior and 91.37% for anterior canals. For the cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potential, the upper limits of normal for latencies were defined as 18.07 ms for p13 and 28.47 ms for n23; and in the SG, 19.57% showed prolongation of latency of p13 and 4.35% of wave n23, whereas 18.96% did not show biphasic potential. Conclusions: For the video head impulse test, a decreased gain of the vestibulo-ocular reflex for the lateral canal was observed, with a higher incidence of overt type corrective saccades compared to the control group. For the cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potential, there was a significant difference between the groups for the inter-amplitude parameter, including for asymptomatic ears. There was no correlation between the results of the tests and disease duration.

Resumo Introdução: A doença de Ménière está entre as causas mais frequentes de vestibulopatias. Apesar de o diagnóstico ser clínico, compreender melhor a fisiopatologia e o curso clínico da doença por meio dos exames vestibulares permite melhores prognósticos e tratamentos. Objetivos: Descrever resultados do potencial evocado miogênico vestibular cervical e teste de impulso cefálico por vídeo em pacientes com diagnóstico de doença de Ménière definida e correlacionar com o tempo de doença. Método: A amostra foi constituída por 50 participantes, dos quais 29 compuseram o grupo de estudo e 21 formaram o grupo controle. Os indivíduos foram submetidos a um questionário clínico, otoscopia, avaliação audiológica e avaliação da função vestibular por meio do potencial evocado miogênico vestibular cervical e teste de impulso cefálico por vídeo. Resultados: Para teste de impulso cefálico por vídeo foram considerados alterados os valores de ganho para canal lateral abaixo de 0,77 e para os canais verticais abaixo de 0,61; e os percentuais de normalidade para o grupo de estudo foram 82,76% para lateral; 89,65% para posterior e 91,37% anterior. No potencial evocado miogênico vestibular cervical, os limites superiores das latências foram definidos 18,07 ms para p13 e 28,47 ms para n23; no grupo de estudo 19,57% apresentaram prolongamento da latência da p13 e 4,35% da onda n23 e 18,96% não apresentaram o potencial bifásico. Conclusões: No teste de impulso cefálico por vídeo observou-se ganho do reflexo vestíbulo ocular diminuído para os canais laterais, com maior ocorrência de sacadas corretivas do tipo overt. Para o potencial evocado miogênico vestibular cervical observou-se diferença significante entre os grupos para o parâmetro interamplitude, inclusive para orelhas assintomáticas. Não foi evidenciada correlação dos resultados dos exames com o tempo de doença.

Comparação das respostas do VEMP cervical e ocular em indivíduos com e sem doenças otoneurológicas / Comparison of cervical and ocular VEMP responses in individuals with and without otoneurological diseases / Comparación de respuestas VEMP cervicales y oculares en individuos con y sin enfermedades otoneurológicas

Introdução: a avaliação vestibular é realizada tradicionalmente por meio da prova calórica para avaliação do labirinto em indivíduos com tonturas, porém este exame não avalia toda a via vestibular. Os potenciais evocados miogênicos vestibulares (VEMP) consistem em um exame de rápida execução, considerado método de escolha para avaliação dos órgãos otolíticos e do nervo vestibular. Objetivo: analisar as respostas do exame VEMP cervical (cVEMP) e ocular (oVEMP) em indivíduos com doenças vestibulares e compará-las àquelas obtidas em indivíduos de mesma faixa etária e sexo sem queixas de tontura pregressas e atuais. Métodos: Estudo observacional, transversal e analítico. Os participantes foram divididos em dois grupos: grupo com tontura (GT), composto por indivíduos com diversas doenças vestibulares e o grupo sem queixa de tontura (GC). Ambos os grupos foram submetidos à meatoscopia, ao VEMP cervical e ocular. Resultados: A amostra foi composta por 45 indivíduos com a idade entre 23 e 68 anos, sendo 27 indivíduos do grupo GC e 18 do grupo GT. No exame cVEMP as latências, amplitudes, índice de assimetria e o índice de assimetria corrigido foram iguais no GT quando comparado com o GC. No exame oVEMP encontrou-se a amplitude esquerda maior e a latência N10 menor estatisticamente no grupo GT quando comparado ao grupo GC. Dentre as doenças do grupo GT os indivíduos com deiscência de canal superior tiveram valores maiores na amplitude esquerda, o que pode ter interferido nos resultados. Conclusão: Não foram evidenciadas diferenças nas respostas do cVEMP entre os grupos neste estudo. Encontrou-se aumento da amplitude esquerda e o valor menor da latência N10 direita no grupo com tontura na análise do exame oVEMP. Acredita-se que a heterogeneidade de doenças vestibulares no grupo com tontura e o reduzido número de participantes em ambos os grupos tenham contribuído para esse desfecho.

Introduction: The vestibular assessment is traditionally carried out with the caloric test to evaluate the labyrinth in individuals with dizziness. However, this examination does not evaluate the entire vestibular pathway. The vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (VEMP) are a quick test, considered a choice method to assess the otolith organs and the vestibular nerve. Purpose: To analyze the responses of the cervical (cVEMP) and ocular VEMP (oVEMP) examinations in individuals with vestibular diseases and compare them with the results obtained in individuals of the same age group and gender without previous and current complaints of dizziness. Methods: In this observational, cross-sectional, analytical study, the participants were divided into two groups: the dizziness group (DG), composed of individuals with several vestibular diseases, and the group without complaints of dizziness (CG). Both groups underwent meatoscopy, and cervical and ocular VEMP. Results: The sample comprised 45 individuals aged 23 to 68 years ­ 27 individuals in the CG and 18 in the DG. In the cVEMP exam, the latencies, amplitudes, asymmetry index, and the corrected asymmetry index were the same in the GT when compared to the GC. In the cVEMP examination, the latencies, amplitudes, asymmetry index, and corrected asymmetry index were equal in the DG when compared with the CG. In the oVEMP examination, the left amplitude was statistically greater and the N10 latency, smaller in the DG when compared with the CG. Of the diseases in the DG, individuals with superior canal dehiscence had higher left amplitude values, which may have interfered with the results.Conclusion: There were no differences in cVEMP responses between the groups in this study. An increase in the left amplitude and the lower value in the right N10 latency were found in the DG in the analysis of the oVEMP examination. It is believed that the heterogeneity of vestibular diseases in the DG and the small number of participants in both groups have contributed to this outcome.

Introducción: La evaluación vestibular se lleva a cabo tradicionalmente a través de la prueba calórica para evaluar el laberinto en individuos con mareos, sin embargo, este examen no evalúa toda la vía vestibular. Los potenciales miogénicos evocados vestibulares (VEMP) consisten en una prueba de funcionamiento rápido, considerada el método de elección para evaluar los órganos otolíticos y el nervio vestibular. Objetivo: Analizar las respuestas del examen VEMP cervical y ocular en individuos con enfermedades vestibulares y compararlas con las obtenidas en individuos del mismo grupo de edad y sexo sin quejas de mareos previas y actuales. Métodos:Estudio observacional, transversal y analítico. Los participantes se dividieron en dos grupos: grupo con mareos (GT), compuesto por individuos con varias enfermedades vestibulares y el grupo sin quejas de mareos (CG). Ambos grupos se sometieron a meatoscopia, VEMP cervical y ocular. Resultados: La muestra consistió en 45 individuos con edades comprendidas entre 23 y 68 años, 27 individuos del grupo GC y 18 del grupo GT. En el examen cVEMP, las latencias, amplitudes, índice de asimetría y el índice de asimetría corregido fueron los mismos en el GT en comparación con el CG. En el examen oVEMP, la amplitud izquierda fue mayor y la latencia N10 fue estadísticamente menor en el grupo GT en comparación con el grupo CG. Entre las enfermedades en el grupo GT, los individuos con dehiscencia del canal superior tenían valores más altos en la amplitud izquierda, lo que puede haber interferido con los resultados. Conclusión: No hubo diferencias en las respuestas de cVEMP entre los grupos en este estudio. Se encontró un aumento en la amplitud izquierda y un valor más bajo de la latencia N10 derecha en el grupo con mareos en el análisis del examen oVEMP. Se cree que la heterogeneidad de las enfermedades vestibulares en el grupo de mareos y el pequeño número de participantes en ambos grupos contribuyeron a este resultado.

Vestibular evoked myogenic potentials in the prognosis of sudden hearing loss - a systematic review / O potencial evocado miogênico vestibular no prognóstico da surdez súbita - uma revisão sistemática

Abstract Introduction: Sudden hearing loss is an otorhinolaryngological emergency that often leads to severe damage to the auditory and vestibular function. The vestibular evoked myogenic potential is a test that allows a noninvasive evaluation of the otolithic system function and vestibulospinal and vestibulo-ocular pathways. Objective: To evaluate the importance of vestibular evoked myogenic potential in determining the prognosis of patients with sudden hearing loss. Methods: A search for articles published up to December 2018 was performed in the PubMed, Cochrane, VHL and LILACS databases using MeSH descriptors. Retrospective and prospective articles were included containing cervical or ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potential in sudden hearing loss patients and information on associated vertigo and/or dizziness. Results: Sixteen of 62 initially selected articles met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. Regarding the methodology of the evaluated studies, 8 studies were prospective, six were retrospective, one contained part of the data from a retrospective analysis and another part from a prospective analysis, and one study was cross-sectional. A total of 872 patients were evaluated (50.22% males and 49.77% females) with a mean age of 51.26 years. Four hundred and twenty-six patients (50.35%) had vertigo and/or dizziness associated with sudden hearing loss. The cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potential was performed in all studies, but only seven assessed the ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potential. The cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potential showed alterations in 38.65% of 846 evaluated ears, whereas ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potential showed alterations in 47.88% of 368 evaluated ears. The hearing recovery rate was analyzed by 8 articles, with 63.4% of 410 evaluated ears showing hearing recovery. Conclusions: The studies suggest that the assessment of the vestibular system using vestibular evoked myogenic potential seems to be important in the prognosis of sudden hearing loss. For better follow-up of patients with sudden hearing loss, the emphasis should not be limited to the cochlea, but also include the diagnosis and treatment of vestibular abnormalities, regardless of the presence of vertigo.

Resumo Introdução: A surdez súbita é uma emergência otorrinolaringológica que frequentemente cursa com graves danos à função auditiva e vestibular. O potencial evocado miogênico vestibular é um exame que permite a avaliação não invasiva da função do sistema otolítico e das vias vestíbulo-espinhal e vestíbulo-ocular. Objetivo: Avaliar a importância do potencial evocado miogênico vestibular na determinação do prognóstico dos pacientes com surdez súbita. Método: Uma busca de trabalhos publicados até dezembro de 2018 foi realizada nos bancos de dados PubMed, Cochrane, BVS e Lilacs com descritores cadastrados no MeSH. Foram incluídos artigos retrospectivos e prospectivos que contivessem o potencial evocado miogênico vestibular cervical ou ocular em pacientes com surdez súbita e informações sobre vertigem e/ou tontura associados. Resultados: Dezesseis de 62 artigos selecionados inicialmente preencheram os critérios de inclusão e foram analisados. Quanto à metodologia dos trabalhos avaliados, 8 estudos foram prospectivos, seis retrospectivos, um continha parte dos dados oriunda de uma análise retrospectiva e outra parte de uma análise prospectiva e um estudo foi transversal. Foram avaliados 872 pacientes (50,22% do gênero masculino e 49,77% feminino) com média de 51,26 anos. Do total de pacientes, 426 (50,35%) apresentavam vertigem e/ou tontura associada à surdez súbita. O potencial evocado miogênico vestibular cervical foi realizado em todos os estudos, porém o potencial evocado miogênico vestibular ocular em apenas sete. O potencial evocado miogênico vestibular cervical apresentou alteração em 38,65% de 846 orelhas avaliadas, enquanto o potencial evocado miogênico vestibular ocular estava alterado em 47,88% das 368 orelhas avaliadas. A taxa de recuperação auditiva foi analisada por 8 artigos, 63,4% de 410 orelhas avaliadas apresentavam recuperação auditiva. Conclusões: Os estudos demonstram que a avaliação do sistema vestibular com o uso do potencial evocado miogênico vestibular parece ter importância no prognóstico da surdez súbita. Para melhor acompanhamento do paciente com surdez súbita a ênfase não deve se restringir à cóclea, mas também no diagnóstico e tratamento de alterações vestibulares, independentemente da presença de vertigem.

Application of Cervical Vestibular-Evoked Myogenic Potentials in Adults with Moderate to Profound Sensorineural Hearing Loss: A Preliminary Study

Abstract Introduction The cochlea and the vestibular receptors are closely related in terms of anatomy and phylogeny. Patients with moderate to profound sensorineural hearing loss (MPSHL) should have their vestibular organ functions tested. Objective To evaluate the incidence of vestibular abnormalities in patients with MPSHL and to study the correlation between the etiology of hearing loss (HL) and a possible damage to the labyrinth. Methods A case-control retrospective study was performed. In the case group, 20 adults with MPSHL of known etiology were included. The control group was composed of 15 adults with normal hearing. The case group was divided into 4 subgroups based on the etiology (bacterial meningitis, virus, vascular disease, congenital). Cervical vestibular-evoked myogenic potentials (cVEMPs) were used to rate the saccular function and lower vestibular nerve. Results The study was performed in 70 ears, and it highlighted the presence of early biphasic P1-N1 complex in 29 (71.5%) out of 40 ears in the study group, and in all of the 30 ears in the control group (p = 0.001). Regarding the presence or absence of cVEMPs among the four subgroups of patients with MPSHL, the data were statistically significant (p < 0.001). The comparison between the latencies and amplitude of P1-N1 in case and control groups from other studies and in the four subgroups of cases in the present study did not detect statistically significant differences. Conclusion The present study demonstrates that patients with MPSHL have a high incidence of damage to the labyrinthine organs, and it increases the current knowledge about the etiopathogenesis of sensorineural HL, which is often of unknown nature.

Vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (VEMP) captured in the forearm flexor muscles: a study of its feasibility and reference ranges

OBJECTIVE: To determine the central tendency measures and variability of vestibular evoked myogenic potential (VEMP) with regard to the latency and wave amplitude when potentials are captured from the flexor muscles of the forearm. METHODS: Ten adult volunteers with normal hearing underwent examination of their forearm flexor muscles (right and left sides; 20 samples in total) for VEMP acquisition. To this end, 200 tone burst stimuli at a 500 Hz frequency and 95 dBnHL intensity were promediated. RESULTS: No statistical differences were observed in VEMP responses acquired from the right and left forearm flexor muscles concerning P34 and N44 latencies (p=0.32 and 0.90, respectively). The mean latency obtained for the P34 wave component was 34.9 ms (±2.6), with a lower limit equal to 29.3 and an upper limit equal to 40.4 ms. The average latency of the N44 wave component was 43.6 ms (±2.1), with a lower limit of 39.1 ms and an upper limit of 48.1 ms. The results were consistent and had low variability, and showed an average asymmetry index of 15.4 (±10.7). These findings indicate that potentials may be investigated in different age groups and in specific clinical populations, such as pathologies that may alter the neuronal transmission of the inferior vestibular pathway, especially when a longer portion is observed. CONCLUSIONS: VEMP recording from forearm flexors is both feasible and stable, with latency reference ranges between 29.3 and 40.4 ms for P34, and 39.1 and 48.1 ms for N44.

The Relationship between the Etiology of Profound Prelingual Sensorineural Hearing Loss and the Results of Vestibular-Evoked Myogenic Potentials

Abstract Introduction Cervical vestibular-evoked myogenic potentials (cVEMPs) are biphasic, short latency potentials, which represent the inhibition of the contraction of the sternocleidomastoid muscle (SCM) mediated by the saccule, the inferior vestibular nerve, the vestibular nuclei and the medial vestibular spinal tract. Objective To evaluate the response of cVEMPs in individuals with profound prelingual bilateral cochlear hearing loss. Methods A prospective case-control study. A total of 64 volunteers, divided into a study group (31 patients with profound prelingual sensorineural hearing loss) and a control group (33 subjectsmatched for age and gender with psychoacoustic thresholds of ≤ 25 dB HL between 500 and 8,000 Hz) were submitted to the cVEMP exam. The causes of hearing loss were grouped by etiology and the involved period. Results The subjects of the study group aremore likely to present changes in cVEMPs compared to the control group (35.5% versus 6.1% respectively; p = 0.003), with an odds ratio (OR) of 8.52 (p = 0.009). Itmeans that they had 8.52-fold higher propensity of presenting altered cVEMP results. There were no statistically significant differences between the latencies, the interamplitude and the asymmetry index. Regarding the etiology, there was a statistically significant difference when the cause was infectious, with an OR of 15.50 (p = 0.005), and when the impairment occurred in the prenatal period, with an OR of 9.86 (p = 0.009). Conclusion The present study showed abnormalities in the sacculocolic pathway in a considerable portion of individuals with profound prelingual sensorineural hearing loss due to infectious and congenital causes, as revealed by the cVEMP results. (AU)

cVEMP correlated with imbalance in a mouse model of vestibular disorder

BACKGROUND@#Cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potential (cVEMP) testing is a strong tool that enables objective determination of balance functions in humans. However, it remains unknown whether cVEMP correctly expresses vestibular disorder in mice.@*OBJECTIVE@#In this study, correlations of cVEMP with scores for balance-related behavior tests including rotarod, beam, and air-righting reflex tests were determined in ICR mice with vestibular disorder induced by 3,3'-iminodipropiontrile (IDPN) as a mouse model of vestibular disorder.@*METHODS@#Male ICR mice at 4 weeks of age were orally administered IDPN in saline (28 mmol/kg body weight) once. Rotarod, beam crossing, and air-righting reflex tests were performed before and 3-4 days after oral exposure one time to IDPN to determine balance functions. The saccule and utricles were labeled with fluorescein phalloidin. cVEMP measurements were performed for mice in the control and IDPN groups. Finally, the correlations between the scores of behavior tests and the amplitude or latency of cVEMP were determined with Spearman's rank correlation coefficient. Two-tailed Student's t test and Welch's t test were used to determine a significant difference between the two groups. A difference with p < 0.05 was considered to indicate statistical significance.@*RESULTS@#After oral administration of IDPN at 28 mmol/kg, scores of the rotarod, beam, and air-righting reflex tests in the IDPN group were significantly lower than those in the control group. The numbers of hair cells in the saccule, utricle, and cupula were decreased in the IDPN group. cVEMP in the IDPN group was significantly decreased in amplitude and increased in latency compared to those in the control group. cVEMP amplitude had significant correlations with the numbers of hair cells as well as scores for all of the behavior tests in mice.@*CONCLUSIONS@#This study demonstrated impaired cVEMP and correlations of cVEMP with imbalance determined by behavior tests in a mouse model of vestibular disorder.

No Evidence of a Contribution of the Vestibular System to Frequent Falls in Progressive Supranuclear Palsy

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Conflicting results about vestibular function in progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) prompted a systematic examination of the semicircular canal function, otolith function, and postural stability. METHODS: Sixteen patients with probable PSP [9 females, age=72±6 years (mean±SD), mean disease duration=3.6 years, and mean PSP Rating Scale score=31] and 17 age-matched controls were examined using the video head impulse test, caloric testing, ocular and cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (o- and cVEMPs), video-oculography, and posturography. RESULTS: There was no evidence of impaired function of the angular vestibulo-ocular reflex (gain=1.0±0.1), and caloric testing also produced normal findings. In terms of otolith function, there was no significant difference between PSP patients and controls in the absolute peakto-peak amplitude of the oVEMP (13.5±7.2 µV and 12.5±5.6 µV, respectively; p=0.8) or the corrected peak-to-peak amplitude of the cVEMP (0.6±0.3 µV and 0.5±0.2 µV, p=0.3). The total root-mean-square body sway was significantly increased in patients with PSP compared to controls (eyes open/head straight/hard platform: 9.3±3.7 m/min and 6.9±2.1 m/min, respectively; p=0.032). As expected, the saccade velocities were significantly lower in PSP patients than in controls: horizontal, 234±92°/sec and 442±66°/sec, respectively; downward, 109±105°/sec and 344±72°/sec; and upward, 121±110°/sec and 348±78°/sec (all p<0.01). CONCLUSIONS: We found no evidence of impairment of either high- or low-frequency semicircular function or otolith organ function in the examined PSP patients. It therefore appears that other causes such as degeneration of supratentorial pathways lead to postural imbalance and falls in patients with PSP.

Characteristic of Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss with Objective Vestibular Involvement / 대한이비인후과학회지

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: To analyze the difference in audiologic-vestibular and clinical characteristics between acute cochlea-vestibulopathy (ACV) and idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSNHL). SUBJECTS AND METHOD: We retrospectively analyzed the clinical characteristics of 91 patients diagnosed as sudden hearing loss (ACV; n=20, ISSNHL; n=71). Patients with vestibular hypofunction were categorized as ACV and all others as ISSNHL. Demographics and clinical findings were compared. Audiologic features such as degree of hearing loss, type of audiometric configuration and hearing improvements were analyzed. In addition, vestibular function test results and hearing recovery were further analyzed among ACV group. RESULTS: Demographics and other clinical findings were not much different between groups. There was a significant difference with respect to audiologic features between the ACV group and ISSNHL group: the initial hearing threshold of the ACV group was higher than that of the ISSNHL group, and their treatment onset was also shorter. There was also a significant difference in the hearing outcome showing very low rate of complete recovery in ACV group. The final hearing threshold of the ACV group was higher than that of the ISSNHL group. Dizziness was the only significant variable in the multiple regression analysis. In the ACV group, the cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potential inter-aural amplitude difference (cVEMP IAD) ratio showed a correlation to the hearing recovery in some frequencies; patients with no cVEMP response showed poor outcome compared to those with cVEMP waveform. CONCLUSION: The ACV group shows a poor prognosis just as in the case of sudden hearing loss defined in the traditional sense of vertigo. The IAD value of the vestibular evoked myogenic potentials test will be helpful in assessing hearing improvement, especially when a high IAD value at the middle frequency is associated with a poor prognosis.

Change of the Pure Tone Threshold as a Function of Frequency and Clinical Characteristics in Definite Meniere's Disease / 대한이비인후과학회지

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: One of the characteristics of Meniere’s disease is pure tone threshold shift at low frequencies in the lesion; although, in some patients, more pure tone threshold shifts were also shown at mid or high frequencies. Authors speculated that the most varied pure tone frequency may be related with diversity of clinical symptoms and other characteristics. SUBJECTS AND METHOD: We reviewed medical records of 85 patients who met the criteria of definite Meniere’s disease (1995 American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery). Patients were classified into 3 groups (high frequency, mid frequency, low frequency) depending on the frequency at which pure tone threshold changes encountered the most. The vestibular function tests and clinical characteristics were compared between the groups. RESULTS: Thirty-six patients (42.0%) showed pure tone threshold changes at 0.25 or 0.5 kHz (low frequency group). Twenty-five patients (30.0%) showed greatest pure tone threshold change at 1 or 2 kHz (mid frequency group). Twenty-four patients (28.0%) belonged to the high frequency group with most changes taking place not lower than 4 kHz. Frequency of vertigo attack, and duration of vertigo attack did not differ between the groups. Low frequency group showed more chance of tinnitus with statistical significance. Vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (VEMP) abnormality was more frequently encountered in the low frequency group. CONCLUSION: This study shows that changes in the pure tone threshold is not confined to low frequencies in definite Meniere’s disease. Patients with pure tone threshold changes at low frequencies have more chance of tinnitus and abnormal cVEMP.

Aplicações dos potenciais evocados miogênicos vestibulares: revisão sistemática de literatura / Applications of vestibular-evoked myogenic potentials: a systematic literature review

RESUMO Objetivos Revisar a literatura científica sobre as principais técnicas usadas para gerar o potencial evocado miogênico vestibular (VEMP) e suas aplicações clínicas. Estratégia de pesquisa Os artigos que descrevem os métodos de registro e as aplicações do VEMP foram localizados nas bases de dados PubMed, Web of Science, MEDLINE, Scopus, LILACS e SciELO. O levantamento realizado limitou-se aos artigos publicados nos idiomas Inglês, Português e Espanhol, entre janeiro de 2012 e maio de 2018. Critérios de seleção Artigos sobre os aspectos técnicos para a realização do VEMP ocular, cervical ou do músculo sóleo, com estimulação auditiva ou galvânica e artigos sobre as aplicações clínicas do VEMP foram incluídos; artigos repetidos nas bases de dados, artigos de revisão de literatura, relato de casos, cartas e editoriais foram excluídos. Resultados A estratégia de busca resultou na seleção de 28 artigos. Os estudos evidenciaram três métodos de registro do VEMP: cervical, ocular e no músculo sóleo. As aplicações clínicas do VEMP incluíram doença de Ménière, neurite vestibular, síndrome da deiscência do canal semicircular superior, doença de Parkinson, lesões centrais isquêmicas e mielopatias motoras. Conclusão Independentemente da técnica de registro, o VEMP mostrou-se útil como ferramenta complementar para o diagnóstico de doenças vestibulares periféricas e centrais.

ABSTRACT Purpose To review the scientific literature on the main techniques used to generate vestibular-evoked myogenic potential (VEMP) and its clinical applications. Research strategy A search for articles describing VEMP recording methods and applications was conducted in the PubMed, Web of Science, MEDLINE, Scopus, LILACS and SciELO databases. The search was limited to articles published in English, Portuguese, and Spanish between January 2012 and May 2018. Selection criteria Articles addressing the technical aspects for performing ocular, cervical or soleus VEMP with auditory or galvanic stimulation and articles on the clinical applications of VEMP were included in this review, whereas articles repeated in the databases, literature reviews, case reports, letters, and editorials were excluded. Results The search strategy resulted in the selection of 28 articles. The studies evidenced three methods of VEMP recording: responses from the cervical, ocular and soleus muscle. Clinical applications of VEMP included Meniere's disease, vestibular neuritis, superior semicircular canal dehiscence syndrome, Parkinson's disease, central ischemic lesions, and motor myelopathies. Conclusion Regardless of the recording technique, VEMP has proved to be useful as a complementary tool for the diagnosis of peripheral and central vestibular diseases.

Behavioural and objective vestibular assessment in persons with osteoporosis and osteopenia: a preliminary investigation / Behavioural and objective vestibular assessment in persons with osteoporosis and osteopenia: a preliminary investigation

Abstract Introduction: Calcium is vital for the functioning of the inner ear hair cells as well as for the neurotransmitter release that triggers the generation of a nerve impulse. A reduction in calcium level could therefore impair the peripheric vestibular functioning. However, the outcome of balance assessment has rarely been explored in cases with osteopenia and osteoporosis, the medical conditions associated with reduction in calcium levels. Objective: The present study aimed to investigate the impact of osteopenia and osteoporosis on the outcomes of behavioural and objective vestibular assessment tests. Methods: The study included 12 individuals each in the healthy control group and osteopenia group, and 11 individuals were included in the osteoporosis group. The groups were divided based on the findings of bone mineral density. All the participants underwent behavioural tests (Fukuda stepping, tandem gait and subjective visual vertical) and objective assessment using cervical and ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potentials. Results: A significantly higher proportion of the individuals in the two clinical groups' demonstrated abnormal results on the behavioural balance assessment tests (p < 0.05) than the control group. However, there was no significant difference in latencies or amplitude of cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potential and oVEMP between the groups. The proportion of individuals with absence of ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potential was significantly higher in the osteoporosis group than the other two groups (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The findings of the present study confirm the presence of balance-related deficits in individuals with osteopenia and osteoporosis. Hence the clinical evaluations should include balance assessment as a mandatory aspect of the overall audiological assessment of individuals with osteopenia and osteoporosis.

Resumo: Introdução: O cálcio é vital para o funcionamento das células ciliadas, assim como para a liberação dos neurotransmissores que desencadeiam um impulso nervoso. Uma redução nos níveis de cálcio poderia, portanto, prejudicar o funcionamento vestibular periférico. No entanto, a avaliação do equilíbrio tem sido raramente explorada em casos de osteopenia e osteoporose, condições médicas associadas à redução dos níveis de cálcio. Objetivo: O presente estudo teve como objetivo investigar o impacto da osteopenia e da osteoporose nos resultados dos testes de avaliação comportamental e vestibular objetiva. Método: O estudo incluiu 12 indivíduos nos grupos controle e grupo de osteopenia e 11 indivíduos no grupo da osteoporose. Os grupos foram divididos com base nos achados da densidade mineral óssea. Todos os participantes foram submetidos a testes comportamentais (Prova dos Passos de Fukuda, Marcha em tandem e Vertical Visual Subjetiva) e à avaliação objetiva com o uso de potenciais evocados miogênicos vestibulares cervical e ocular (cVEMP e oVEMP). Resultados: Uma proporção significativamente maior de indivíduos nos dois grupos com condições clínicas mostrou resultados anormais nos testes de avaliação comportamental e do equilíbrio (p < 0,05) do que o grupo controle. Embora não tenha havido diferença significativa nas latências ou na amplitude de cVEMP e oVEMP entre os grupos, a proporção de indivíduos com ausência de oVEMP foi significativamente maior no grupo da osteoporose do que nos outros dois grupos (p < 0,05). Conclusão: Os resultados do presente estudo demonstram a presença de déficits de equilíbrio em indivíduos com osteopenia e osteoporose. Assim, as avaliações clínicas gerais e audiológicas de indivíduos com osteopenia e osteoporose deveriam incluir a avaliação do equilíbrio como um aspecto obrigatório.

Cervical Vestibular-Evoked Myogenic Potentials in Sedated Toddlers

Abstract Introduction Cervical vestibular-evoked myogenic potentials (cVEMPs) are difficult to test in toddlers who cannot follow instructions or stay calm. Objective Due to the growing need for vestibular testing in very young children as a part of a delayed walking assessment battery, this study aimed to provide a solution to this problem by recording the cVEMPs in toddlers during sedation. Method The cVEMPs measures were assessed in 30 toddlers aged 12 to 36 months with normal motormilestones. They were sedated with chloral hydrate. Then, the head was retracted ~ 30° backward with a pillow under the shoulders, and turned 45° contralateral to the side of stimulation to put the sternocleidomastoid (SCM)muscle in a state of tension. Results The P13 and N23 waves of the cVEMPs were recordable in all sedated toddlers. The cVEMPs measures resulted in the following: P13 latency of 17.5 ± 1.41 milliseconds, N23 latency of 25.58 ± 2.02 milliseconds, and peak-topeak amplitude of 15.39 ± 3.45 μV. One-sample t-test revealed statistically significant longer latencies and smaller amplitude of the toddlers' cVEMPs relative to the normative data for adults. Conclusions The difficulty of cVEMPs testing in toddlers can be overcome by sedating them and attaining a position that contracts the SCM muscle. However, the toddlers' recordings revealed delayed latencies and smaller amplitudes than those of adults.

Potenciales evocados miogénicos vestibulares con clicks y estímulos galvánicos / Vestibular evoked myogenic potentials with clicks and galvaric stimulation

El análisis del reflejo vestíbulo-cólico, que consiste en la activación de los vestibulares primarios, aporta una una valiosa información sobre la fisiología vestibular y es una herramienta útil para la evaluación de pacientes con alteraciones vestibulares. El objetivo de este trabajo es determinar las respuestas vestíbulo-cólicas mediante los estímulos con clicks de alta intensidad y mediante estímulos eléctricos transmastoideos (estimulación galvánica), establecer los valores de referencia y evaluar los parámetros según la edad. Se evaluaron a 20 personas sanas asintomáticas: en cada uno de ellos se evaluó la respuesta vestíbulo-cólica ante la estimulación con clicks, donde se registró una respuesta bifásica p13-n23 y ante la estimulación galvánica, donde se obtuvo una respuesta positivo-negativa p1-n1. Se utilizaron dos electrodos de registro, uno activo, ubicado en el tercio superior del músculo esternocleidomastoideo y otro de referencia ubicado en la unión esternoclavicular ipsilateral. Se analizaron las latencias, las amplitudes de los componentes y los índices de asimetría de amplitudes;las medianas de las latencias de los componentes p13 y n23 fueron significativamente menores que las de los componentes p1-n1; las amplitudes, tras la estimulación galvánica fueron menores que las obtenidas con clicks. Asimismo, se halló una correlación negativa entre la amplitud de la respuestas y la edad de los sujetos. El índice de asimetría de amplitudes fue similar en ambos paradigmas. El empleo de ambos tipos de estímulo es complementario para el estudio de la fisiología vestibular

The assessment of the vestibulocollic reflex consists of the activation of primary vestibular afferents; it also provides valuable information about vestibular physiology, and thus, can be used as a diagnostic tool in vestibular disorders. The aim of this research work is to evaluate this vestibule-collic response by using high intensity auditory as well as galvanic stimuli in order to provide normal referente values and search a correlation between each parameter and the age of individuals. Twenty healthy individuals of both sexes were subjetct to an assessment and after high intensity clicks a p13-n23 a response was obtained; furthermore, after galvanic stimuli a p1-n1 response was obtained. Two surface electrodes (active and reference) were used to read the responses obtained. Latency and amplitudes of p13-n23 and p1-n1 responses and asymmetry indexes were analyzed. Median latencies of p13-n23 responses were shorter than those of p1-n1 responses; and amplitudes of p1-n1 were smaller than those of p13-n23. It was observed a negative correlation between amplitudes of responses and age of the subjets. Asymmetry indexes were similar in both paradigms. The assessment of the vestibulo-collic reflex by using both clicks and galvanic stimulation gives valuable information about vestibular physiology