[The acute vestibular paralysis (author's transl)].

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Otolaryngology

Context:

• Acute vestibular paralysis presents with vertigo and nystagmus, lacking cochlear symptoms.
• Diagnostic tests like caloric and galvanic stimulation reveal lesions beyond the labyrinth.

Purpose:

• To clarify the nature of acute vestibular paralysis as a syndrome.
• To explore potential etiologies and pathologies, including vascular and infectious factors.
• To differentiate acute vestibular paralysis from vestibular neuronitis.

Summary:

• Acute vestibular paralysis is characterized by a consistent set of symptoms including vertigo and nystagmus.
• Lesion sites can include the labyrinth, peripheral neuron, or vestibular nuclei, suggesting diverse underlying causes.
• Vascular disturbances and infections (e.g., meningoencephalitis, toxoplasmosis) are implicated as primary triggers.
• Distinguishing this syndrome from the distinct nosologic entity of vestibular neuronitis is essential.

Impact:

• Provides a clearer understanding of acute vestibular paralysis, aiding in differential diagnosis.
• Highlights the importance of considering vascular and infectious origins in vestibular dysfunction.
• Emphasizes the need for precise diagnostic criteria to differentiate syndromes from specific diseases.