Czermak–Hering test
(Redirected from Hering–Czermak test)
Czermak–Hering test | |
---|---|
[[File:|250px|alt=|]] | |
Pronunciation | |
Synonyms | |
Reference Range | |
Calculator | |
Purpose | To assess the function of the vagus nerve |
Test of | |
Based on | |
ICD-10-PCS | |
ICD-9-CM | |
MeSH | |
OPS-301 Code | |
Other Codes | |
MedlinePlus | |
eMedicine | |
LOINC | |
HCPCS-L2 | |
The Czermak–Hering test is a clinical procedure used to evaluate the function of the vagus nerve, particularly its role in the autonomic nervous system. This test is named after the physiologists Johann Nepomuk Czermak and Ewald Hering, who contributed to the understanding of vagal nerve function.
History[edit | edit source]
The test was developed in the 19th century as part of the broader exploration of the nervous system and its functions. Czermak and Hering were pioneers in the study of reflexes and the autonomic nervous system, and their work laid the foundation for many modern diagnostic techniques.
Procedure[edit | edit source]
The Czermak–Hering test involves the application of pressure to the carotid sinus, which is located at the bifurcation of the common carotid artery. This pressure stimulates the baroreceptors in the carotid sinus, which are sensitive to changes in blood pressure. The stimulation of these receptors sends signals via the vagus nerve to the brainstem, resulting in a reflexive decrease in heart rate and blood pressure.
Steps[edit | edit source]
1. The patient is positioned comfortably, usually in a supine or seated position. 2. The examiner locates the carotid sinus, which is found at the level of the thyroid cartilage. 3. Gentle pressure is applied to the carotid sinus for a few seconds. 4. The patient's heart rate and blood pressure are monitored for changes.
Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]
The Czermak–Hering test is primarily used to assess the integrity of the vagus nerve and the baroreceptor reflex. It can help diagnose conditions such as vagal nerve dysfunction or baroreflex failure. However, due to the potential risks of inducing bradycardia or syncope, this test is performed with caution and is not commonly used in modern clinical practice.
Risks and Considerations[edit | edit source]
The application of pressure to the carotid sinus can lead to significant bradycardia or even syncope, especially in patients with underlying cardiovascular conditions. Therefore, the test should be performed with caution, and continuous monitoring of the patient is essential.
Also see[edit | edit source]
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia |
Let Food Be Thy Medicine Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates |
Translate this page: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
தமிழ்,
తెలుగు,
Urdu,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
বাংলা
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
Greek,
português do Brasil,
polski,
română,
русский,
Nederlands,
norsk,
svenska,
suomi,
Italian
Middle Eastern & African
عربى,
Turkish,
Persian,
Hebrew,
Afrikaans,
isiZulu,
Kiswahili,
Other
Bulgarian,
Hungarian,
Czech,
Swedish,
മലയാളം,
मराठी,
ਪੰਜਾਬੀ,
ગુજરાતી,
Portuguese,
Ukrainian
Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD