[Contribution of visual evoked potentials, electronystagmography and the blink reflex to the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis]

Abstract

One hundred and forty six cases of multiple sclerosis were investigated and classified according to McAlpine's criteria into 3 group: probable (40 cases), possible (51 cases) and definite (55 cases). In every patient visual evoked potentials, electronystagmography and blink reflex were performed in the same session. Percentages of abnormal findings were 66 p. cent for VEP, 63 p. cent for ENG and 53 p. cent for blink reflex. These 3 methods can detect subclinical lesions and in reveal new sites of demyelination. Since in only 14 cases (10%) were the results of all 3 methods normal, it is concluded that simultaneous examination by these methods can contribute to the diagnosis.