Which test is used to assess vestibular function by using caloric irrigation?

Which test is used to assess vestibular function by using caloric irrigation?

• A. Audiogram
• B. Electronystagmography
• C. Tympanometry
• D. Otoacoustic emissions

Answer: (B)

Caloric irrigation examines vestibular function by stimulating the horizontal semicircular canal with warmed or cooled air or water in the ear. This temperature change causes endolymph movement, which triggers a predictable eye movement (nystagmus) if the vestibular pathways are working properly. The resulting eye movements are recorded to quantify the vestibular response, typically using electronystagmography, often with videonystagmography as well. The other tests measure different parts of the auditory system: an audiogram assesses hearing thresholds, tympanometry evaluates middle-ear mechanics, and otoacoustic emissions test outer hair cell function in the cochlea.

Caloric irrigation examines vestibular function by stimulating the horizontal semicircular canal with warmed or cooled air or water in the ear. This temperature change causes endolymph movement, which triggers a predictable eye movement (nystagmus) if the vestibular pathways are working properly. The resulting eye movements are recorded to quantify the vestibular response, typically using electronystagmography, often with videonystagmography as well. The other tests measure different parts of the auditory system: an audiogram assesses hearing thresholds, tympanometry evaluates middle-ear mechanics, and otoacoustic emissions test outer hair cell function in the cochlea.