Abstract
Post-rotatory nystagmus (P-RN) is an easily elicited reflex which has been found to be abnormal in developmentally delayed children. P-RN has been recorded in newborn infants,but limited information is presently available. Thirty-six healthy full-term infants were tested at 1, 2, 4, 6, 9 and 12 mo. of age. Infants were held in a rotational chair, spun in the dark for one minute at a constant angular velocity (150°/sec) and then abruptly stopped. P-RN occurrence, duration of primary nystagmus (reversal time), time constant values (Tc=cupula,Ta=adaptation) and intersaccadic intervals (time between fast components) were recorded, measured and analyzed (ANOVA). P-RN was elicited more frequently in older infants. Mean reversal time was 23.6 sec. at 1 mo. and increased linearly with age, approaching by 12 mo. those of children and adults (34.8 sec). Cupula and adaptation times (Tc and Ta) varied with the individual, did not change with age and were similar to those reported for adults. Mean intersaccadic interval (ISI) was 0.49 and 0.64 sec. at 1 and 12 mo.,respectively. P-RN is present at 1 mo. of age and can be reliably measured if wakefulness is maintained. Adult-like values for Tc and Ta reflect a relatively mature vestibular system. Reversal time appears to be a sensitive measure of vestibular function and shows maturational changes during the first year of life. Preliminary evaluation of ISI suggests that this system is functional early in life. These data may be valuable for comparison with those of infants at risk for developmental delay.
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Cordero, L., Clark, D. & Liscano, M. 1281 POST-ROTATORY NYSTAGMUS IN THE FULL-TERM INFANT. Pediatr Res 15 (Suppl 4), 656 (1981). https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-198104001-01310
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-198104001-01310