Definition of Positional alcohol nystagmus
Positional alcohol nystagmus (PAN) is nystagmus (visible jerkiness in eye movement) produced when the head is placed in a sideways position. PAN occurs when the specific gravity of the perilymph filled membrane space (bony labyrinth) of the semicircular canals in the ear differs from the specific gravity of the endolymph fluid in the canals (membranous labyrinth) because of the presence of alcohol. Heavy water ingestion has the opposite effect.
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Frequently asked questions
What is Positional alcohol nystagmus?
Positional alcohol nystagmus (PAN) is nystagmus (visible jerkiness in eye movement) produced when the head is placed in a sideways position.