Article

Perception of sound in the absence of an external auditory source is
called tinnitus, which may negatively affect quality of life. Anodal transcranial
direct current stimulation (tDCS) of the left temporoparietal area (LTA) was
explored for tinnitus relief.
This pilot study examined tDCS dose
(current intensity and duration) and response effects for tinnitus suppression.
METHODS: Twenty-five participants with chronic tinnitus and a mean age of 54
years took part. Anodal tDCS of LTA was carried out. Current intensity (1 mA and
2 mA) and duration (10 minutes, 15 minutes, and 20 minutes) were varied and their
impact on tinnitus measured. RESULTS: tDCS was well tolerated. Fifty-six percent
of participants (14) experienced transient suppression of tinnitus, and 44% of
participants (11) experienced long-term improvement of symptoms (overnight-less
annoyance, more relaxed, and better sleep). There was an interaction between
duration and intensity of the stimulus on the change in rated loudness of
tinnitus, F(2, 48) = 4.355, P = .018, and clinical global improvement score, F(2,
48) = 3.193, P = .050, after stimulation. CONCLUSIONS: Current intensity of 2 mA
for 20 minutes was the more effective stimulus parameter for anodal tDCS of LTA.
tDCS can be a potential clinical tool for reduction of tinnitus, although longer
term trials are needed.

Langue : ANGLAIS