Evaluation of the caloric test by combining 3 response parameters

The slow-phase velocity of nystagmus is one of the most sensitive parameter s of vestibular function and is currently the standard for evaluating the c aloric test. However, the assessment of this parameter requires recording t he response by using nystagmography. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether frequency and duration of the caloric nystagmus, as measured by usi ng a clinical test with Frenzel glasses, could predict the result of the re corded test. The retrospective analysis of 222 caloric test results recorde d by means of electronystagmography has shown a good association between th e 3 parameters for unilateral weakness. The asymmetry observed in the veloc ity can be predicted by a combination of frequency and duration. On the oth er hand, no relationship was observed between the parameters for directiona l preponderance. These results indicate that a clinical caloric test with f requency and duration as parameters can be used to predict the unilateral w eakness, which would be obtained by use of nystagmography. We propose an ev aluation of the caloric test on the basis of diagrams combining the 3 respo nse parameters.