CALORIC TEST Meaning and
Definition
-
The caloric test is a diagnostic procedure used to assess the functioning of the vestibular system, which is responsible for maintaining balance and spatial orientation. The test involves the introduction of hot or cold water or air into the ear canal to stimulate the vestibular organs.
The procedure begins by seating the patient comfortably in a reclined position. The ear canal is irrigated with either warm or cold water or air, which causes a temperature change within the vestibular system. This temperature change stimulates the inner ear and produces a nystagmus response, which is an involuntary rhythmic movement of the eyes. The nystagmus response is observed and recorded by an examiner.
The caloric test is typically performed on each ear separately. The temperature change induces a sensation of motion and subsequently, a compensatory eye movement occurs in the opposite direction. By observing the characteristics of the nystagmus, such as its direction, duration, and intensity, physicians can gather important information about the health and functionality of the vestibular system.
The caloric test is commonly used to evaluate individuals with vertigo, dizziness, or other symptoms suggestive of an inner ear disorder or vestibular dysfunction. It aids in determining the etiology of these symptoms and assists in making an accurate diagnosis. Additionally, the caloric test can be valuable in monitoring the progression or improvement of certain vestibular conditions as well as assessing the efficacy of treatment interventions.
-
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for CALORIC TEST
- xaloric test
- valoric test
- faloric test
- daloric test
- czloric test
- csloric test
- cwloric test
- cqloric test
- cakoric test
- caporic test
- caooric test
- caliric test
- calkric test
- callric test
- calpric test
- cal0ric test
- cal9ric test
- caloeic test
- calodic test
- calofic test
Etymology of CALORIC TEST
The word "caloric" in the context of the "caloric test" is derived from the term "calorie", which has its roots in Latin.
The term "calorie" was coined in the early 19th century and originally used to denote a unit of heat. It comes from the Latin word "calor", meaning "heat". The concept of "calories" in relation to food and energy was introduced by Nicolas Clément, a French physicist, in 1824.
The phrase "caloric test" refers to a medical examination or diagnostic method that measures the function of the vestibular system in the inner ear. It is used to assess a person's balance and detect disorders such as vestibular neuritis or Meniere's disease. The term "caloric" is used here because the test involves introducing warm or cold air or water into the ear canal to stimulate the vestibular system's response to temperature changes.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
