Normative data on transcranial magnetic stimulation motor evoked potential from the tongue

Our aim was to determine parameters of motor evoked potential (MEP) from the tongue in healthy persons. Methods. 25 healthy individuals (average age 22.4 ± 6.2 years, range 18–41 years, 12 females & 13 males) were enrolled. All underwent diagnostic TMS, single-pulse protocol, 90-sm round coil, Neiro-MS-D device. Coil was placed on Fz point, registration was performed by the surface electrode on the middle line of the tongue. Results. MEP was registered in all cases, its average latency was 7.14 ± 0.63 ms, average amplitude — 1.79 ± 1.09 μV. There were no gender & age differences. Conclusion. In healthy people aged 18–41 years MEP from the tongue may be registered in 100% of the cases; its average latency is 7.14 ± 0.63 ms, average amplitude — 1.79 ± 1.09 μV; there are no significant age & gender differences. TMS of the tongue according to this protocol is relatively simple, not time-and efforts-consuming & may be widely implemented in clinical neurophysiology.