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Bilateral idiopathic loss of peripheral vestibular function with normal hearing
1University Clinic of ENT, Head and Neck Surgery, Inselspital, Berne, Switzerland.
Acta Oto-Laryngologica
|September 1, 1995
Summary
Bilateral idiopathic loss of vestibular function (BILVF) is rare, affecting 0.6% of patients. This condition causes imbalance and vertigo, with potential causes including viral infections and toxic factors.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Bilateral idiopathic loss of vestibular function (BILVF) is a rare condition characterized by the absence of nystagmic reactions.
- This study analyzes cases of BILVF identified through electronystagmography (ENG) between 1982 and 1993.
Observation:
- Fifty-two ENGs revealed absent nystagmic reactions, representing 0.6% of all ENGs performed.
- Fourteen patients (27%) presented with BILVF, normal hearing, and no neurological symptoms.
- Two onset patterns were observed: simultaneous (10 patients) and sequential (4 patients).
Findings:
- Simultaneous onset presented with sudden imbalance and disequilibrium, worse in darkness.
- Sequential onset involved episodes of acute vertigo and persistent imbalances, with unilateral then contralateral function loss.
- Follow-up revealed persistent or episodic symptoms in most patients, with 4 experiencing oscillopsia.
Implications:
- Potential etiologies include viral infections, systemic diseases, immune reactions, and toxic factors.
- Understanding BILVF's presentation and potential causes is crucial for diagnosis and management.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the exact mechanisms and develop targeted treatments for this rare vestibulopathy.