Some critical remarks on the interpretation of vestibular test results

In the scope of the evaluation of vestibular function, the attention is drawn to the fact that results of tests are to be considered in a relative way. They do not express the absolute functional capacity, but in half of the cases it can be shown that the functional state is intensity dependent. This can be observed in claoric tests as well as in rotation tests. In these latter even the type of stimulation may give a different result. The experiences obtained in a number of cases by both stimulation types confirm this assessment that the functional result is always to be considered in this relative way. This implies some reserves as to the comparability of results of various authors, using different stimulation schemes. On the other hand, and this especially in rotation tests, application of more stimulation intensities allows to separate cases with stable from those with labile results.