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Correlates of vestibular evaluation results during the first year of life
P E Brookhouser1, D G Cyr, J E Peters
1Boys Town National Research Hospital, Omaha, NE 68131.
Insights
This study investigated infant vestibular function, finding it normal in most infants. Abnormal vestibular responses were not significantly linked to auditory brainstem responses or birth factors.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal neurology
- Vestibular system development
- Pediatric audiology
Background:
- Extensive research exists on prenatal and perinatal factors affecting neonatal auditory brainstem responses.
- However, the vestibular system's function in infants, particularly during the first year, remains understudied.
Observation:
- A specialized vestibular test battery evaluated 65 infants (17 low-risk, 48 high-risk) within their first six months.
- Normal vestibular function was observed in 46 infants, while 19 exhibited abnormalities at 3 or 6 months.
Findings:
- Statistical analysis explored correlations between vestibular results and auditory brainstem responses, birth history, and neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) course.
- Mildly significant differences were noted, but no strong correlations emerged.
- Notably, abnormal auditory brainstem responses did not significantly correlate with abnormal vestibular findings.
Implications:
- Highlights the need for further research into infant vestibular development and its potential clinical significance.
- Suggests that auditory and vestibular pathways may develop or be affected independently in high-risk neonates.
- Emphasizes the importance of comprehensive neurodevelopmental assessments in infants, especially those with risk factors.
Abstract:
Prenatal and perinatal correlates of abnormal auditory brainstem responses in neonates have been studied extensively. In contrast, vestibular function during the first year of life has received sparse attention. Using a specially modified vestibular test battery, 65 infants (17 low-risk, 48 high-risk) were initially evaluated during their first 6 months of life. Results revealed normal vestibular function in 46 infants (13 low-risk, 33 high-risk) and abnormal findings at either 3 or 6 months in 19 infants (4 low-risk, 15 high-risk). Correlations between vestibular results and variables such as auditory brainstem response results, birth history, and postnatal course in the neonatal intensive care unit were analyzed statistically. While some differences were mildly significant, none were highly significant. The lack of significant correlation between abnormal auditory brainstem response and vestibular results is of particular interest.