A comparison of duration of nystagmus as measured by the Southern California Postrotary Nystagmus Test and electronystagmography.

The Southern California Postrotary Nystagmus Test (SCPNT) and electronystagmography are methods used to evaluate one aspect of vestibular function. The SCPNT is based on the examiner's observation of eye movements and is used in combination with other information as part of a diagnostic battery for children with learning disorders. Electronystagmography is the permanent recording of eye movements through the use of surface electrodes. In this study. The SCPNT and an electronystagmograph were used to record postrotary nystagmus in 20 normal females aged 25 to 30. A significant correlation was found between the two tests for both duration and excursion. In addition, scores of both tests were compared for four normal and for four learning-disabled girls aged 7 to 8. The only significant correlation found was in terms of duration in the normal girls. Results were discussed in terms of factors affecting observation of eye movement, and differences between the nystagmus response of adults and children.