Positional test in acute vestibular disorders

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• Acute vestibular diseases present diagnostic challenges.
• Positional testing is crucial for evaluating vestibular function.

Observation:

• The positiogram, a quantitative positional test, was used to assess nystagmus intensity.
• Nystagmus intensity varied significantly between vestibular neuronitis and Meniere's disease.

Findings:

• Patients with acute vestibular neuronitis exhibited higher nystagmus intensity compared to those in the irritation stage of Meniere's disease.
• Severe vertigo and a sense of annihilation were reported by vestibular neuronitis patients.
• Positional test quantification aids in monitoring disease progression, stability, or remission.

Implications:

• Positional test results can guide follow-up assessments.
• Persistent or progressive abnormal positional test findings may warrant neuroradiological investigation.
• Ruling out acoustic neurinoma is essential, particularly with unilateral sensorineural hearing loss.