Journal of neuroscience methods
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J. Neurosci. Methods · Oct 1998
Assessing mechanical allodynia in the rat paw with a new electronic algometer.
Von Frey filaments used for testing mechanical thresholds are mechanically unstable and their use is difficult to standardize. We have therefore constructed a hand-held electronic pressure algometer. The pressure algometer is connected to a computerized data collection system, allowing on-line display of the applied force as well as the application rate. ⋯ Thresholds of control rats without surgery were in the 0.380-0.520 N range, with no significant difference between paws. In an additional experiment it was shown that interobserver reliability was high, both between withdrawal threshold values obtained and between rates of application used. In conclusion, the electronic algometer allows standardization of testing, detailed documentation of each experiment and provides an objective and accurate method for measuring the reactions of test animals to mechanical stimuli.