[Effects of endotoxin on the cochlear electrophysiology and Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase activity]

Hemophilus influenzae (type B) endotoxin 10 micrograms was put in the niche of the round window in guinea pigs. The CAP thresholds and N1 latencies were measured before and 12, 24 and 72 hours after experiments. The 10 kHz and 8 kHz CAP thresholds after experiments were significantly higher (P less than 0.01), the N1 latencies were prolonged (P less than 0.05). There were minute changes in 4kHz CAP thresholds and N1 latencies (P greater than 0.05). In all time groups, the Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase activity was outstandingly weakened. It suggested that: (1) endotoxin put in the niche of the round window is responsible for the cochlear function disturbances in high frequencies, and (2) the decrease of the Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase activity is an important factor for the electrophysiological disturbances in the inner ear.