Feasibility of Using Smartphone Eye Tracking for Self-Recording Positional Tests

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Neurology
• Medical Technology

Background:

• Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is a frequent cause of dizziness.
• Diagnosis relies on detecting nystagmus via positional testing.
• Limited access to clinicians hinders timely BPPV diagnosis and treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the usability of a smartphone-based eye-tracking application (EyePhone).
• To assess the feasibility of self-recording eye movements during positional tests for BPPV diagnosis.

Main Methods:

• Healthy volunteers used the EyePhone app to self-record Dix-Hallpike and Supine Roll tests.
• Participant accuracy and time taken were recorded.
• App usability was assessed via the mHealth App Usability Questionnaire (MAUQ); video quality was evaluated by experts.

Main Results:

• All participants successfully recorded eye movements using the app.
• Average recording times were 3 min 31 s for Dix-Hallpike and 3 min 4 s for Supine Roll.
• 95% of videos showed clear eye visibility, and participants found the app easy to use.

Conclusions:

• The EyePhone app is usable and feasible for self-recording positional tests.
• This technology has the potential to facilitate remote BPPV diagnosis.
• The app may improve patient access to care for dizziness and vertigo.