Caloric irregularity in experimentally induced perilymphatic fistula.

The term "caloric irregularity" was coined to refer to a gross irregularity in the amplitude and/or frequency of a caloric-induced nystagmus, having a variable slow-phase velocity and prolonged duration. Twelve of 46 guinea pigs with experimentally induced perilymphatic fistula had irregular responses to the ice-water caloric test 1 week after creation of a fistula. The long-term vestibular consequences in animals with caloric irregularities were either resolution and return to normal function (i.e. caloric return) or continuing deterioration to canal paresis. Morphological examination of ears with caloric irregularity revealed that there had been partial collapse of the membranous labyrinth and the creation of a floating labyrinth.