Exploring brainstem function in multiple sclerosis by combining brainstem reflexes, evoked potentials, clinical and MRI investigations.

Objective: To investigate vestibulo-masseteric (VMR), acoustic-masseteric (AMR), vestibulo-collic (VCR) and trigemino-collic (TCR) reflexes in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS); to relate abnormalities of brainstem reflexes (BSRs) to multimodal evoked potentials (EPs), clinical and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) findings.

Methods: Click-evoked VMR, AMR and VCR were recorded from active masseter and sternocleidomastoid muscles, respectively; TCR was recorded from active sternocleidomastoid muscles, following electrical stimulation of the infraorbital nerve. EPs and MRI were performed with standard techniques.

Neuropsychophysiological findings in a case of long-standing overt ventriculomegaly (LOVA).

Long-standing overt ventriculomegaly in adults (LOVA) is a clinical entity characterized by chronic hydrocephalus with infant onset, slow evolution and clinical disturbances during adulthood. Few cases are reported in literature describing the evident contrast between the severity of hydrocephalus and the relatively spared neurological functioning and cognitive aspects. The authors describe a 59-year-old man with congenital hydrocephalus complaining of persistent gait impairment.