Chronological changes of electrocochleogram in experimental endolymphatic hydrops. Special reference with AP output potential and hair cell cilia.

Chronological changes of the whole nerve action potential (AP), cochlear microphonics (CM) and summating potential (SP) in experimental endolymphatic hydrops in guinea pigs were studied during a period from 1 week to 13 months after the endolymphatic sac obliteration. Endolymphatic hydrops became extensive in month 3 and persisted thereafter. The threshold of AP increased with the lapse of time but good AP output potential was obtained, being maximum in month 3. The threshold of CM increased with the lapse of time. The CM output potential was the highest around week 3 when endolymphatic hydrops was slightly formed, and it decreased thereafter. SP responses at the frequencies of 8, 4, 1 and 0.5 kHz showed the reversed polarity of -SP in month 3 and changed towards potential 0 thereafter. In animals showing super-normal AP output potential, the cilia in the third row of outer hair cells were disarranged. This seems to be involved in recruitment.