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Published on: October 24, 2019
Vestibular evoked myogenic potentials in preterm infants.
Seyra Erbek1, Zeynel Gokmen, Servet Ozkiraz
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Baskent University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey. seyraerbek@yahoo.com
Audiology & Neuro-Otology
|July 30, 2008
Summary
Premature infants show delayed vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (VEMPs). Asphyxia is a significant risk factor for abnormal VEMP responses in these newborns, indicating potential auditory-vestibular system maturation issues.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal neurology
- Auditory and vestibular system development
Background:
- Prematurity can impact neurodevelopmental outcomes.
- Vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (VEMPs) assess the function of the saccule and vestibular nerve.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between perinatal risk factors and VEMP abnormalities in preterm infants.
- To identify specific perinatal factors influencing VEMP responses in neonates.
Main Methods:
- A prospective case-control study involving 50 preterm infants and 20 term infants.
- VEMP recordings were performed, and p13 latencies were analyzed.
- Multivariable logistic regression identified risk factors for abnormal VEMP responses.
Main Results:
- Abnormal VEMP rates were significantly higher in preterm infants compared to term infants (p < 0.001).
- Asphyxia (OR = 13.985) and testing time were significantly associated with abnormal VEMP responses.
- No association was found between VEMP abnormalities and other common perinatal factors like gestational age, birth weight, or sepsis.
Conclusions:
- Preterm infants exhibit delayed maturation of VEMPs.
- Asphyxia is a critical risk factor for abnormal VEMP responses in preterm neonates.
- VEMP testing can help identify vestibular system dysfunction in premature infants.
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