Related Experiment Videos
Acoustic neuroma presenting as exercise-induced vertigo
Nelson Wang Cheng Chee1, Helen Mui Huey Tong
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, Republic of Singapore. nelson_chee@ttsh.com.sg
The Journal of Laryngology and Otology
|October 23, 2002
Summary
Acoustic neuromas can cause vertigo, especially during physical activity. A simple hyperventilation test can help diagnose this condition, even with normal hearing or existing deafness.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Otolaryngology
- Neurotology
Background:
- Acoustic neuromas, benign tumors on the vestibulocochlear nerve, can present with varied symptoms.
- Vertigo is a common but often non-specific symptom in neurological and otological assessments.
Observation:
- Two patients with undiagnosed acoustic neuromas reported vertigo triggered by running.
- One patient had normal hearing, while the other had unilateral sensorineural deafness.
Findings:
- A 30-second hyperventilation maneuver provoked ipsilateral beating nystagmus in both patients.
- The hyperventilation test reproduced the vertiginous sensation, aiding in diagnosis.
Implications:
- Hyperventilation serves as a simple, effective bedside diagnostic tool for vertigo.
- This test is valuable when assessing patients with vertigo or suspected acoustic neuromas.