Changes in EP and inner ear ionic concentrations in experimental endolymphatic hydrops.

Unilateral endolymphatic hydrops was created in guinea pigs by endolymphatic duct obstruction. Using microelectrodes, studies of endocochlear potential (EP) and inner ear ionic concentrations were performed. EP was significantly decreased whereas Na+, K+, and Cl- concentrations in both scala media and scala tympani were not significantly altered. The presence of a decreased EP after endolymphatic duct obstruction appears to be a reliable indicator for the presence of hydrops. This decrease in EP without ionic concentration changes suggests that it is the electrogenic portion of EP which is altered in hydrops.