EVALUATION OF FINDINGS OF OPTOKINETIC NYSTAGMUS TEST

Abstract

This report discusses normal findings obtained in the optokinetic nystagmus test. Optokinetic nystagmus was provoked with isometric acceleration (±4°/sec²). The optokinetic stimulation drum was started at 0°/sec and accelerated to 160°/sec. After this level of stimulation having been reached, the drum was decelerated to 0°/sec.
Optokinetic nsytagmus thus induced was recorded on the ENG at paper speeds of 1 mm/sec and 0.5 cm/sec. The former record was analyzed by a qualitative procedure, and the latter by a quantitative procedure. Optokinetic nystagmus test findings were analyzed in 50 normal subjects. As a result, it was revealed that the maximum eye speed of the slow component of nystagmus was 94.0°±16.5°/sec and the total number of nystagmus was 218.0±23.4.
A more objective evaluation can be made of optokinetic nystagmus test results by analyzing not only qualitative findings such as OKP (Optokinetic Nystagmus Pattern) but also quantitative findings. It is therefore recommended that the evaluation of optokinetic nystagnius test results be based on both qualitative and quantitative findings.