A comparison of test-retest variability of caloric induced nystagmus in a normal population using an air stimulus presented via a standard and modified irrigating probe

The caloric test has traditionally been carried out using water. Air caloric techniques have been available for some time but one of the reported disadvantages is the high variability of response. The aim of this study was to compare the test-retest variability of the air caloric response using a normal irrigation probe and a modified probe. The modified probe allowed observation of the placement of the probe tip within the ear canal and could be used to observe the direction of air flow during the irrigation. It was found that the variability with the modified probe is smaller than with the normal probe.