Aging effect on the ocular vestibular-evoked myogenic potentials.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Otolaryngology
• Gerontology

Background:

• Ocular vestibular-evoked myogenic potential (oVEMP) tests assess otolith function.
• The influence of aging on oVEMP parameters requires quantitative investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantitatively evaluate the effects of aging on oVEMP responses in healthy individuals.
• To establish age-related normative data for oVEMP parameters.

Main Methods:

• Prospective study involving 70 healthy subjects aged 24-76 years, stratified by decade.
• oVEMP testing performed using bone-conducted vibration stimuli.
• Analysis of response rates, latencies (nI, pI), amplitude (nI-pI), and asymmetry ratios.

Main Results:

• Response rates for clear oVEMPs significantly decreased in subjects over 60 years (55% in 60-69, 40% in >=70) compared to younger groups (100%).
• Mean nI and pI latencies were significantly prolonged, and mean nI-pI amplitude significantly reduced in subjects over 60 and 40 years, respectively.
• Significant correlations were found between age and nI latency, pI latency, and nI-pI amplitude, but not nI-pI interval.

Conclusions:

• Aging, particularly after 60 years, demonstrably affects oVEMP characteristics.
• Age-related changes include diminished response rates, prolonged latencies, and reduced amplitudes.
• Clinicians must consider age when interpreting oVEMP results for accurate assessment of vestibular function.