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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 20, 2026

Three Dimensional Vestibular Ocular Reflex Testing Using a Six Degrees of Freedom Motion Platform

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Published on: May 23, 2013

Active head rotation in benign positional paroxysmal vertigo.

Fernando Freitas Ganança¹, Cristina Freitas Ganança, Heloisa Helena Caovilla

¹EPM, UNIFESP, Brazil. otoneuro@unifesp.epm.br

Brazilian Journal of Otorhinolaryngology

|September 29, 2009

Summary

The active head rotation test effectively identifies horizontal and vertical vestibulo-ocular reflex dysfunctions in patients with Benign Positional Paroxysmal Vertigo (BPPV). This modern assessment method is crucial for diagnosing this common vestibular disorder.

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Area of Science:

Neuroscience
Ophthalmology
Otolaryngology

Background:

Benign Positional Paroxysmal Vertigo (BPPV) is a prevalent vestibular disorder.
Accurate diagnosis of BPPV is essential for effective management.
The active head rotation test is a contemporary method for assessing vestibular function.

Purpose of the Study:

To evaluate the efficacy of the active head rotation test in detecting vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR) dysfunction.
To determine if the active head rotation test can identify horizontal and/or vertical VOR abnormalities in BPPV patients.
To correlate VOR findings with suspected BPPV diagnoses.

Main Methods:

A retrospective series study was conducted.
Neurotological evaluations were performed on 100 patients with suspected BPPV.
Assessments included computerized electronystagmography and active head rotation testing on horizontal and vertical axes.

Main Results:

Abnormalities in horizontal and/or vertical VOR gain, phase, and symmetry were observed.
These VOR dysfunctions were indicative of vestibular involvement.
Significant VOR abnormalities were detected in 77.0% of patients diagnosed with BPPV.

Conclusions:

The active head rotation test is a valuable tool for identifying VOR dysfunctions.
The test revealed horizontal and/or vertical VOR abnormalities in a substantial proportion of BPPV patients.
This supports the utility of the active head rotation test in the diagnostic workup of BPPV.