Indication of the Side of Delayed Endolymphatic Hydrops by Vestibular Evoked Myogenic Potential and Caloric Test

Objective: Delayed endolymphatic hydrops (DEH) can be clinically classified into ipsi-and contralateral types. This study aims to investigate the relationship between the results of vestibular evoked myogenic potential (VEMP) and caloric testing and the clinical type of DEH. Methods: The data of 33 patients with DEH who underwent both VEMPs and caloric testing were retrospectively examined. The type of DEH was judged from its clinical and audiological course. The asymmetry ratios of the VEMPs and canal paresis on the caloric test were measured. Results: The results of VEMP and the caloric testing were consistent with the type of DEH in 61 and 76% of DEH patients, respectively. Combined use of VEMP and caloric testing correctly identified the type of DEH in 82% of patients. Conclusions: The combined use of VEMP and caloric testing can indicate the type of DEH at a reasonably high rate, but inconclusively. Copyright (C) 2010 S. Karger AG, Basel