[Effect of inner ear immune response on vestibular function in guinea pigs]

We examined vestibular dysfunction and histological damage caused by direct antigen challenge to the endolymphatic sac in guinea pigs. We observed spontaneous nystagmus every eight hours and performed caloric testing every week following endolymphatic sac secondary KLH challenge. Spontaneous nystagmus was seen in 12 of 18 animals, and nystagmus in all directed toward the unchallenged ear (paralytic). The caloric response time courses were classified into two types, which were irreversible type and reversible type after endolymphatic sac KLH challenge. The immune injury of animals with irreversible type was thought to be stronger than that of these with reversible type. The spontaneous nystagmus of irreversible type animals was longer than that of reversible type animals. The temporary vestibular dysfunction was thought to be similar to that observed in Meniere's disease.