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Vestibular aberrations in multiple sclerosis.

M Dam¹, N J Johnsen, J Thomsen

¹University Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.

Acta Neurologica Scandinavica

|November 11, 2009

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Clinical vestibular tests, including optokinetic nystagmus, frequently detect subclinical signs of multiple sclerosis (MS). This examination is recommended for patients suspected of MS to identify early or atypical cases.

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Area of Science:

Neurology
Neuroscience
Ophthalmology

Background:

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic demyelinating disease affecting the central nervous system.
Vestibular and visual pathways are frequently impacted in MS, leading to various neurological symptoms.
Early and accurate diagnosis of MS is crucial for effective management and treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

To evaluate the utility of clinical vestibular tests, including optokinetic nystagmus (OKN), in detecting signs of multiple sclerosis (MS).
To assess the prevalence of vestibular and OKN abnormalities in patients with MS.
To determine if vestibular examinations can identify subclinical or early-stage MS.

Main Methods:

Eighty-two patients diagnosed with MS based on McAlpine's criteria underwent a comprehensive battery of clinical vestibular tests.
Tests included assessment for spontaneous nystagmus, positional nystagmus, and differential caloric tests.
Horizontal and vertical optokinetic nystagmus (OKN) was evaluated in all participants.

Main Results:

Abnormalities in spontaneous nystagmus, positional nystagmus, or caloric tests were observed in 60% of MS patients.
Pathological horizontal optokinetic nystagmus was detected in 57% of patients.
Pathological OKN in both directions, especially when combined with vertical OKN abnormalities, suggested diffuse cerebral lesions.

Conclusions:

Clinical vestibular examinations, particularly those incorporating optokinetic nystagmus assessment, are effective in identifying lesions in the central vestibular and optokinetic pathways in MS patients.
These tests can reveal subclinical signs of MS, aiding in the diagnosis of early or atypical presentations.
Vestibular testing is recommended for individuals suspected of having MS to facilitate early detection and intervention.