[Caloric stimulation in infants].

Caloric stimulation is one of few clinically proven tests assessing the function of each vestibule separately in neonates. Its results represent the continuity of vestibulo-ocular reflex, beginning in the lateral vestibular canal. Vestibular disorders are diagnosed in 20 to even 70% neonates with sensorineural hearing loss with the prevalence of individuals with profound and acquired deafness. 58 high risk of hearing defect infants were included in the study. Their age ranged from 3 to 6 months. A group of 27 healthy controls with negative history concerning sensorineural hearing loss risk factors was also examined. Caloric stimulation was performed according to Veits. External ear canal was irrigated with 20 ml of water at the temperature of 20 degrees C and eye movements were watched indirectly. In about 34% infants the nystagmic reaction to cold water was weaker than in normal controls. The reaction was most frequently impaired in infants with perinatal pathology, multiple congenital defects and aminoglycoside administration. Caloric stimulation in infants should be performed with cold water and the syringe used in the test should be fitted with a soft hose enabling irrigation of the interior part of the external ear canal.