Interpretación de resultados de las pruebas oculomotoras, posicionales y calóricas de la videonistagmografía. Revisión documental / Interpretation of the results of the oculomotor, positional and caloric test of the videonistagmography. Documentary review

Introducción: en la actualidad, se reconocen cuadros vestibulares periféricos y centrales que pueden ser diagnosticados mediante la videonistagmografía (VNG). Los avances en la tecnología han provocado en los profesionales una constante actualización en el uso e interpretación de las distintas pruebas que conlleven, en su lectura cruzada, un diagnóstico acertado y a tratamientos de rehabilitación exitosos. El objetivo fue describir las interpretaciones de los resultados de las pruebas oculomotoras, posicionales y calóricas de la VNG para lograr un diagnóstico detallado de las disfunciones vestibulares. Materiales y métodos: revisión documental obtenida de 40 fuentes reportadas en la literatura científica entre 2010 a 2020 tomadas de bases de datos, tesis de grado y libros. Discusión: dentro de la revisión se encontraron tres categorías (pruebas oculomotoras, posicionales y calóricas) y siete subcategorías (nistagmo espontáneo, nistagmo evocado por la mirada, rastreo, sacadas, optocinético, Dix-Hallpike y roll test). Conclusión: los diversos elementos encontrados en la presente revisión son relevantes ya que precisan no solo el tipo de vértigo, sino también su localización topográfica, lo que favorece el proceso de evaluacióndiagnóstico en la población en general.

Introduction: At present, peripheral and central vestibular frames are recognized that can be diagnosed by videonystagmography (VNG). Advances in technology have caused professionals to constantly update the use and interpretation of the different tests that lead, in their cross-reading, to an accurate diagnosis and successful rehabilitation treatments. The objective was to describe the interpretations of the results of the oculomotor, positional and caloric tests of the VNG, for a detailed diagnosis of the vestibular dysfunctions. Materials and method: Documentary review obtained from 40 sources reported in the scientific literature between 2010 and 2020, taken from databases, thesis and books. Discussion: Within the review, three categories were found (oculomotor, positional and caloric tests) and seven subcategories (spontaneous nystagmus, gaze-evoked nystagmus, tracking, saccades, optokinetic, Dix-Hallpike and roll test). Conclusion: The various elements found in this review are relevant in that they specify not only the type of vertigo but also its topographic location, favoring the evaluation-diagnosis process in the general population.

Correlation analysis of 3D-FLAIR MRI characteristics of the inner ear and vestibular function in the patients with vestibular neuritis / 中华耳鼻咽喉头颈外科杂志

Objective: The characteristics of 3D-FLAIR MRI images of the inner ear of patients with vestibular neuritis were preliminarily studied to explore the possible pathogenesis of vestibular neuritis, and the correlation analysis was conducted in combination with vestibular function to provide a basis for accurate diagnosis of vestibular neuritis. Methods: A total of 36 patients with vestibular neuritis (VN) from December 2019 to October 2020 were collected from the Vertigo Department of Shandong Provincial ENT Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University. There were 36 cases (18 females, 18 males) with unilateral acute vestibular neuritis, 17 cases of left ear and 19 cases of right ear. According to the results of 3D-FLAIR MRI in the inner ears, the patients were divided into the enhanced group and the non-enhanced group (the health side served as the normal control group). The results of vestibular function examination in the two groups were compared. SPSS19.0 software was used for statistical processing to analyze the relationship between the vestibular function and the characteristics of 3D-FLAIR imaging in the inner ears. Results: Abnormal enhancement of 3D-FLAIR was found in 31 cases (86.1%) of the 36 cases, including 14 cases of both vestibular nerve and vestibular terminal organ enhancement, eight cases of superior vestibular nerve enhancement alone, seven cases of vestibular terminal organ enhancement alone, and two cases of cochlear enhancement alone. Observation of abnormal reinforcement of vestibular nerve showed: twenty-one cases of superior vestibular nerve reinforcement, one case of superior and inferior vestibular nerve reinforcement. No abnormalities were found in 3D-FLAIR of inner ear in 5 cases. According to the analysis of vestibular function results, there were 19 cases (52.8%) with total vestibular involvement, sixteen cases (44.4%) with superior vestibular involvement alone, and one case (2.8%) with inferior vestibular involvement alone. Comparison of vestibular function between the five cases (non-enhancement group) and the 31 cases (enhanced group) in the 3D-FLAIR group of the inner ears showed that the CP values of caloric tests in the enhanced group were higher (60.81±3.49 vs 34.12±7.37), with statistically significant difference (t=-2.898, P<0.01). Conclusion: In patients with vestibular neuritis, 3D-FLAIR MRI scan of the inner ear provides visual imaging evidence for clinical practice, considering that the lesion site of vestibular neuritis is not only in the vestibular nerve, but also in the vestibular end organ. Patients with 3D-FLAIR enhanced in the inner ear may have more significant vestibular function damage.

Does the video head impulse test replace caloric testing in the assessment of patients with chronic dizziness? A systematic review and meta-analysis / O video head impulse test substitui a prova calórica na avaliação de pacientes com tontura crônica? Uma revisão sistemática e metanálise

Abstract Introduction: Caloric testing is the most frequently used test to assess peripheral vestibular function since the beginning of the 20th century. However, the video head impulse test, vHIT, has gained prominence in the field of neurotology, as it is a faster examination, easier to perform and less uncomfortable for the patient. Objective: To compare, through systematic review and meta-analysis, the proportion of altered cases between vHIT tests and caloric testing in patients with chronic dizziness, in addition to assessing the sensitivity and specificity of vHIT, with caloric testing as the gold standard. Methods: The literature search was carried out in the PubMed, Scopus, BVS-Bireme, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane and ProQuest indexed databases, with no restrictions regarding the publication period. All articles that contained the results of the two tests were included in the evaluation of patients with dizziness. Two researchers independently conducted data selection and extraction from the studies, strictly following the inclusion and exclusion criteria defined in the research protocol. In case of disagreement during the selection, a discussion was carried out with a third evaluator. Results: Eleven of the 1293 initial articles met the eligibility criteria and were analyzed. 2670 patients were evaluated, of which 1112 (41.6%) were males and 1558 (58.4%) females, with a mean age of 51.6 years. The proportion of altered results in the vHIT was 21% (95%CI 9% --33%), and 55% in the caloric testing (95%CI 43% --67%). Conclusion: The vHIT does not substitute for caloric testing. The tests are complementary in assessing the patient with dizziness, as they describe the tonotopy of the ampullary crest at different frequency ranges of stimulation. In chronic cases, the vHIT has a low sensitivity and high diagnostic specificity in comparison to caloric testing.

Resumo Introdução: A prova calórica é o exame mais usado para avaliação da função vestibular periférica desde os primórdios do século XX. Porém, o vídeo teste de impulso cefálico, vHIT, tem ganhado destaque no campo da otoneurologia por ser um exame mais rápido, de fácil execução e menos desconfortável para o paciente. Objetivo: Comparar, através de revisão sistemática e metanálise, a proporção de casos alterados entre os exames vHIT e prova calórica nos pacientes com tontura crônica, além de avaliar a sensibilidade e especificidade do vHIT, tendo a prova calórica como padrão-ouro. Método: A busca na literatura foi feita nas bases de dados indexadas PubMed, Scopus, BVS-Bireme, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane e ProQuest, sem restrições quanto ao período da publicação. Foram incluídos todos os artigos que tivessem os resultados dos dois exames na avaliação de pacientes com tontura. Dois pesquisadores conduziram de forma independente a seleção e extração de dados dos estudos, obedeceram rigorosamente os critérios de inclusão e exclusão definidos no protocolo de pesquisa. Em caso de discordância na seleção, fez-se discussão com um terceiro avaliador. Resultados: Onze dos 1.293 artigos iniciais preencheram os critérios de elegibilidade e foram analisados. Foram avaliados 2.670 pacientes, 1.112 (41,6%) do sexo masculino e 1.558 (58,4%) do feminino, com média de 51,6 anos. A proporção de exames alterados no vHIT foi de 21% (95% IC 9%-33%) e na prova calórica foi de 55% (95% IC 43%-67%). Conclusão: O vHIT não substitui a prova calórica. Ambos os testes são complementares na avaliação do paciente com tontura, pois descrevem a tonotopia da crista ampular em diferentes faixas de frequência de estimulação. Nos quadros crônicos, o vHIT tem baixa sensibilidade e alta especificidade diagnóstica em relação à prova calórica.

Diagnostic assessment of patients with Meniere's disease through caloric testing and the video-head-impulse test / Avaliação diagnóstica dos pacientes com doença de Ménière por meio da prova calórica e do video-head impulse test

Abstract Introduction Meniere's disease is a labyrinth disease that usually presents with episodes of spontaneous vertigo associated with sensorineural hearing loss, tinnitus and ipsi- and unilateral aural fullness in most cases. Vestibular function tests, video-head-impulse test and the caloric test, are not specific for diagnosis of the disease, but may show alterations that help to evaluate the functional impairment. Objective To describe the results obtained at the caloric test and video-head-impulse test in patients with definite Meniere's disease and compare them between symptomatic, asymptomatic ears and those of the control group. Methods Cross-sectional and observational study including patients with definite Meniere's disease diagnosed according to the Bárány Society criteria (2015) and healthy individuals (control group) undergoing caloric test and video-head-impulse test. All subjects were assessed by neurotological anamnesis and audiological evaluation (pure-tone, vocal and immittance audiometry) to characterize the sample. The findings obtained at the caloric test and video-head-impulse test were described and compared between the symptomatic and asymptomatic ears of patients with Meniere's disease and those of the control group. Results Thirty-two patients with definite Meniere's disease were evaluated, with a mean age of 45.7 years, mostly females (68.8%) and unilateral disease. The control group consisted of 20 healthy individuals, with a mean age of 44.7 years, mostly females (70.0%). The groups were homogeneous in relation to age and gender. The patients' main complaint was vertigo (71.9%), and most patients had more than six episodes in the last six months (71.9%). Moderate sensorineural hearing loss was present in 38.5% of patients. The prevalence of hyporeflexia at the caloric test was higher in symptomatic (56.4%) and asymptomatic (36%) ears of patients with Meniere's disease compared to the ears of control subjects (7.5%), p < 0.001 and p = 0.004, respectively. Video-head-impulse test alterations in the lateral semicircular canals were more frequent in the symptomatic ears of patients with Meniere's disease than in the ears of control subjects (p = 0.026). Conclusion Most patients with definite Meniere's disease showed hyporeflexia at the caloric test and video-head-impulse test with normal function in the symptomatic ear. Vestibular hyporeflexia at the caloric test was more frequent in the symptomatic and asymptomatic ears of patients with Meniere's disease than in the control group. The video-head-impulse test showed more alterations in the lateral semicircular canals.

Resumo Introdução Doença de Ménière é uma labirintopatia que geralmente se manifesta com episódios de vertigem espontânea, associada à perda auditiva neurossensorial, ao zumbido e à plenitude aural ipsi e unilateral, na maioria dos casos. Os testes da função vestibular, vídeo-teste do impulso cefálico e prova calórica não são específicos para a doença, porém podem apresentar alterações que ajudam a avaliar o comprometimento funcional. Objetivo Descrever os resultados obtidos à prova calórica e ao vídeo-teste do impulso cefálico nos pacientes com doença de Ménière definida e compará-los entre as orelhas sintomáticas, assintomáticas e com as orelhas dos indivíduos do grupo-controle. Método Estudo transversal e observacional que incluiu pacientes com doença de Ménière definida diagnosticados de acordo com os critérios da Sociedade Bárány (2015) e indivíduos saudáveis (grupo controle) submetidos à prova calórica e ao vídeo-teste do impulso cefálico. Todos os sujeitos foram avaliados por meio de anamnese otoneurológica e avaliação audiológica (audiometria tonal, vocal e imitanciometria) para caracterização da amostra. Os achados obtidos foram descritos e comparados entre as orelhas sintomáticas e assintomáticas dos pacientes com doença de Ménière e também com as do grupo-controle. Resultados Foram avaliados 32 pacientes com doença de Ménière definida. A média de idade dos pacientes foi de 45,7 anos, a maioria do sexo feminino (68,8%) e unilateral. O grupo-controle foi composto por 20 indivíduos saudáveis, com média de 44,7 anos e maioria feminina (70,0%). Os grupos mostraram-se homogêneos em relação à idade e ao sexo. A principal queixa dos pacientes foi a vertigem (71,9%). A maioria dos pacientes apresentou mais de seis crises nos últimos seis meses (71,9%). A perda auditiva neurossensorial moderada esteve presente em 38,5% dos pacientes. A prevalência da hiporreflexia à prova calórica foi maior nas orelhas sintomáticas (56,4%) e assintomáticas (36%) dos pacientes com doença de Ménière quando comparadas às orelhas dos indivíduos do grupo-controle (7,5%), valor de p< 0,001 e p= 0,004 respectivamente. As alterações de vídeo-teste do impulso cefálico de canal semicircular lateral foram mais frequentes nas orelhas sintomáticas dos pacientes com doença de Ménière do que nas orelhas dos indivíduos controles, (p= 0,026). Conclusão A maioria dos pacientes com doença de Ménière definida apresentou hiporreflexia à prova calórica e vídeo-teste do impulso cefálico com função normal na orelha sintomática. A hiporreflexia vestibular à prova calórica foi mais frequente nas orelhas sintomáticas e assintomáticas dos pacientes com doença de Ménière do que nas orelhas do grupo-controle. O vídeo-teste do impulso cefálico apresentou mais alterações no canal semicircular lateral.

Vestibular status in partial deafness / Condição vestibular na surdez parcial

Abstract Introduction The hair cells of the cochlea and the vestibulum are closely connected and may be susceptible to the same noxious factors. The relationship between their function has been a continuing field of investigation. The indications for cochlear implantation have been broadened and now include the patients with partial deafness. This raises the question of their vestibular status. Objective The aim of the study was to investigate whether there is any difference between the vestibular function of patients with low frequency residual hearing and those with totally deaf ears. Methods A total of 360 ears with profound sensorineural hearing loss were analysed before cochlear implantation. The patients were divided into four groups, according to their low frequency residual hearing (Group 1 ‒ normal or slightly elevated low frequency residual hearing; Group 2 ‒ elevated threshold but still usable hearing at low frequencies; Group 3 - non-functional residual hearing; Group 4 ‒ no detectable hearing threshold within the limits of the audiometer). The patients underwent vestibular tests: cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potential, ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potential, caloric test and video-head impulse test. Results The rates of elicited responses in cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potential were as follows: in Group 1 (59.3 %); Group 2 (57.5 %); Group 3 (35.2 %); Group 4 (7.7 %). For ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potential the percentage of correct outcomes was: Group 1 (70.8 %); Group 2 (56.0 %); Group 3 (40.0 %); Group 4 (14.3 %). For the caloric test we counted normal responses in 88.9 % of Group 1; 81.6 % of Group 2; 57.9 % of Group 3; 53.3 % of Group 4. For video-head impulse test we also found markedly better results in Group1, followed by Group 2, and much worse in Group 3 and 4. Conclusion Patients with partial deafness not only have a better cochlea but also better vestibular function, which needs to be protected. In summary, the better the low frequency residual hearing, the better the vestibular status.

Resumo Introdução As células ciliadas da cóclea e do vestíbulo estão intimamente ligadas e podem ser suscetíveis aos mesmos fatores nocivos. A relação entre suas funções tem sido um campo de investigação há muito tempo. As indicações para implante coclear foram ampliadas e agora incluem os pacientes com surdez parcial. Isso levanta a questão de sua condição vestibular. Objetivo Investigar se existe alguma diferença entre a função vestibular de pacientes com audição residual de baixa frequência e aqueles com surdez total. Método Foram analisadas antes do implante coclear 360 orelhas com perda auditiva neurossensorial profunda. Os pacientes foram divididos em quatro grupos, de acordo com a audição residual de baixa frequência (Grupo 1 - audição residual de baixa frequência normal ou levemente elevada; Grupo 2 - limiar auditivo elevado, mas ainda usável em baixas frequências; Grupo 3 - audição residual não funcional; Grupo 4 - sem limiar auditivo detectável dentro dos limites do audiômetro). Os pacientes foram submetidos a testes vestibulares: potencial evocado miogênico vestibular cervical, potencial evocado miogênico vestibular ocular, prova calórica e teste do impulso cefálico com vídeo. Resultados As taxas de respostas obtidas no potencial evocado miogênico vestibular cervical foram as seguintes: no Grupo 1 (59,3%); Grupo 2 (57,5%); Grupo 3 (35,2%); Grupo 4 (7,7%). Para o potencial evocado miogênico vestibular ocular, o percentual de resultados corretos foi: Grupo 1 (70,8%); Grupo 2 (56,0%); Grupo 3 (40,0%); Grupo 4 (14,3%). Para a prova calórica, contamos respostas normais em 88,9% do Grupo 1; 81,6% do grupo 2; 57,9% do Grupo 3; 53,3% do Grupo 4. Para o teste do impulso cefálico com vídeo, também encontramos resultados significativamente melhores no Grupo 1, seguidos pelo Grupo 2, e muito piores nos Grupos 3 e 4. Conclusão Pacientes com surdez parcial não só apresentam uma função coclear melhor, mas também melhor função vestibular, que precisa ser protegida. Em resumo, quanto melhor for a audição residual de baixa frequência, melhor a condição vestibular.

Frequency characteristics of horizontal semicircular canals damage and the ultrastructure analysis of crista ampullaris in patients with Meniere's disease / 中华耳鼻咽喉头颈外科杂志

Objective: To investigate the frequency characteristics and the pathological characteristics of the horizontal crista ampullaris in patients with Meniere's disease,and to analyse its structural basis. Methods: Between March, 2019 and November, 2019, seventy-two patients diagnosed as Meniere's disease (27 males and 45 females, aged from 13 to 74 years, with a course of disease ranging from 4 months to 32 years)in Shandong Provincial ENT Hospital were included.Caloric test, sinusoidal harmonic acceleration test (SHA), video-head impulse test (v-HIT), Gadolinium-enhanced inner-ear 3D-FLAIR MRI and pure tone audiometry were conducted in the patients. The function of the horizontal semicircular canal in these patients were analysed as well as its relationship with the degree of endolymphatic hydrops,clinical stage and duration. Light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy were used to observe the ultrastructure of horizontal semicircular canal crista ampullaris from six patients with refractory Meniere's disease who underwent labyrinthectomy. The number of type Ⅰ and type Ⅱ vestibular hair cells, the common pathophysiological changes of horizontal semicircular canal crista ampullaris were investigated in these patients. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 19.0. Results: With the increase of detection frequency, the abnormal rate decreased gradually. The abnormal rate of caloric test was 69.4% (50/72), SHA 51.4% (37/72), V-HIT 36.1% (26/72), comparation of the positive rate among the three tests showed statistically significant differences(P<0.05).Neither caloric test nor SHA had correlation with the degree of hydrops(P>0.05), but v-HIT(r=0.434,P<0.01).There was correlation with clinical stage to SHA and v-HIT(r=0.338,0.462,P<0.01), except caloric test(P>0.05).No significant relation was found with caloric test, SHA, v-HIT and course of disease(P>0.05).Morphological observation found abnormal monolayer epithelialization of the horizontal semicircular canal crista ampullaris significantly decreased number of type Ⅱ hair cells compared with type Ⅰhair cells. Hair cells showed perinuclear vacuolization, cytoplasmic vacuoles, mitochondrial electron density increasement and loss of stereocilia. Conclusions: The horizontal semicircular canal damage in the patients with Meniere's disease has a frequency-dependent characteristic, mainly occurres in low frequency area. With progress of the disease, the high frequency area of ampulla will be impaired gradually, and it is related to the degree of endolymphatic hydrops and hearing level. Hair cell injury would be observed,the frequency characteristics may be more associated with the disorder of type Ⅱ hair cells.

Evaluation of vestibular and oculomotor functions in individuals with dizziness after stroke / Avaliação das funções vestibular e oculomotora em indivíduos com tontura após acidente vascular encefálico

ABSTRACT Changes in postural balance and visual complaints are frequent consequences of stroke. We aimed to investigate the symptoms and the vestibular and oculomotor functions of patients with dizziness post ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke and compare the results among them. Methods: Fifty patients with dizziness after stroke were evaluated through a clinical anamnesis and computerized vector electronystagmography: calibration of ocular movements, spontaneous nystagmus, semi-spontaneous nystagmus, pendular tracking, optokinetic nystagmus, rotary chair testing, and the caloric test. Results: All patients complained of dizziness, especially imbalance. Ischemic stroke in the carotid territory was the prevalent type. Visual complaints were reported by 56% of the sample and were related to abnormalities in oculomotor and caloric tests. Conclusion: The occurrence of visual symptoms was related to some abnormalities in the vector electronystagmography tests, being more frequent in cases of stroke in the vertebrobasilar system, and with oscillopsia and reduced visual acuity as symptoms.

RESUMO Alterações no equilíbrio postural são consequências frequentes no acidente vascular cerebral (AVC). O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar os sintomas e as funções vestibular e oculomotora de sujeitos com tontura após AVC isquêmico e hemorrágico, comparando seus resultados. Métodos: Foram avaliados 50 sujeitos com tontura após AVC, por meio de anamnese clínica e vectoeletronistagmografia computadorizada (VENG): calibração dos movimentos oculares; nistagmo espontâneo e semi-espontâneo; rastreio pendular; nistagmo optocinético; prova rotatória pendular decrescente e prova calórica com estímulo a ar. Resultados: Todos relataram tontura, principalmente do tipo desequilíbrio. O AVC isquêmico e no sistema carotídeo foi o mais frequente. Sintomas visuais pós-AVC foram referidos por 56% da amostra, os quais tiveram relação com alterações nas provas oculomotoras e calórica da VENG. Conclusão: A ocorrência de sintomas visuais relacionou-se a alterações em alguns testes. Essas alterações foram mais frequentes nos casos de AVC da circulação posterior, naqueles com oscilopsia e diminuição da acuidade visual.

Caloric test and video head impulse test sensitivity as vestibular impairment predictors before cochlear implant surgery

OBJECTIVES: Currently, cochlear implant procedures are becoming increasingly broad and have greatly expanded. Bilateral cochlear implants and cochlear implants are more frequently applied in children. Our hypothesis is that the video head impulse test may be more sensitive than the caloric test in detecting abnormal vestibular function before cochlear implant surgery. The objective of this study was to compare the video head impulse test and caloric test results of patients selected for cochlear implant procedures before surgery. METHODS: The patients selected for cochlear implant surgery were submitted to a bithermal caloric test and video head impulse test. RESULTS: By comparing angular slow phase velocity values below 5° in the bithermal caloric test (hypofunction) and video head impulse test with a gain lower than 0.8, we identified 37 (64.9%) patients with vestibular hypofunction or canal paresis and 21 (36.8%) patients with abnormal video head impulse test gain before the cochlear implant procedure. Of the 37 patients with caloric test vestibular hypofunction, 20 (54%) patients exhibited an abnormal gain in the video head impulse test. CONCLUSION: The caloric test is more sensitive than the video head impulse test (Fisher's exact test, p=0.0002) in detecting the impaired ear before cochlear implant delivery. The proportion of caloric test/video head impulse test positive identification of abnormal vestibular function or caloric test/video head impulse test sensitivity was 1.8:1.

Long-Term Changes in Video Head Impulse and Caloric Tests in Patients with Unilateral Vestibular Neuritis / 대한이비인후과학회지

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Video head impulse tests (vHITs) and caloric tests are widely used to assess the loss of vestibular function in acute vestibular neuritis. Although previous studies have reported on the results of each test, longitudinal comparison of these tests is rare. In the present study, vHITs and caloric tests were performed in patients with unilateral vestibular neuritis during the acute phase and after a long follow-up period (>6 months). The goal of this study was to evaluate the changes in vHIT and caloric test results and to analyze the relationships between them. SUBJECTS AND METHOD: Between September 2013 and December 2015, charts from 13 patients with unilateral vestibular neuritis were retrospectively reviewed. Among the 13 patients, caloric tests and vHITs were performed in 9 and 10 patients, respectively. Results of the vHITs and caloric tests were analyzed and the changes were compared. RESULTS: During the acute phase of vestibular neuritis, the results of the caloric test showed an increase in canal paresis (CP), and the results of the vHIT showed a decrease in horizontal gain. Although subjective symptoms improved in all patients after a long follow-up period (mean: 13.9 months), the occurrence of CP determined from the caloric test was not significantly changed (p=0.889). On the other hand, the mean horizontal gain of the vHIT had improved significantly (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: While CP determined from the caloric test did not change after a long follow-up period, the decreased horizontal gain in the vHIT was significantly recovered in patients with unilateral vestibular neuritis.

No Evidence of a Contribution of the Vestibular System to Frequent Falls in Progressive Supranuclear Palsy

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Conflicting results about vestibular function in progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) prompted a systematic examination of the semicircular canal function, otolith function, and postural stability. METHODS: Sixteen patients with probable PSP [9 females, age=72±6 years (mean±SD), mean disease duration=3.6 years, and mean PSP Rating Scale score=31] and 17 age-matched controls were examined using the video head impulse test, caloric testing, ocular and cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (o- and cVEMPs), video-oculography, and posturography. RESULTS: There was no evidence of impaired function of the angular vestibulo-ocular reflex (gain=1.0±0.1), and caloric testing also produced normal findings. In terms of otolith function, there was no significant difference between PSP patients and controls in the absolute peakto-peak amplitude of the oVEMP (13.5±7.2 µV and 12.5±5.6 µV, respectively; p=0.8) or the corrected peak-to-peak amplitude of the cVEMP (0.6±0.3 µV and 0.5±0.2 µV, p=0.3). The total root-mean-square body sway was significantly increased in patients with PSP compared to controls (eyes open/head straight/hard platform: 9.3±3.7 m/min and 6.9±2.1 m/min, respectively; p=0.032). As expected, the saccade velocities were significantly lower in PSP patients than in controls: horizontal, 234±92°/sec and 442±66°/sec, respectively; downward, 109±105°/sec and 344±72°/sec; and upward, 121±110°/sec and 348±78°/sec (all p<0.01). CONCLUSIONS: We found no evidence of impairment of either high- or low-frequency semicircular function or otolith organ function in the examined PSP patients. It therefore appears that other causes such as degeneration of supratentorial pathways lead to postural imbalance and falls in patients with PSP.

Characteristics of Nystagmus during Attack of Vestibular Migraine / 대한평형의학회지

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study is to investigate characteristics of nystagmus during attacks of vestibular migraine (VM), and to find a distinct clinical feature compared to other migraine and peripheral vestibular disorders. METHODS: This study is a retrospective chart review of 82 patients satisfied with VM criteria, which is formulated by the new Bárány Society. Spontaneous and positional nystagmus provoked by various head positions were examined with video-nystagmography in all patients. Bithermal caloric test and cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potential test (cVEMP) were also performed. The direction and peak slow-phase velocity (SPV) of nystagmus, unilateral caloric weakness and interaural difference of cVEMP were analyzed. Control groups were lesion side in acute VN for nystagmus results and healthy side in the patients with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo of posterior semicircular canal for caloric and cVEMP results. Chi-square test and Mann-Whitney U-test were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: During the acute attack, nystagmus was seen in 71.9% (59 of 82) of patients. Horizontal nystagmus was the predominant type. Peak SPV in VM patients was much slower than in the control group (2.37±1.73 °/sec vs. 17.05±12.69 °/sec, p<0.0001). There was no significant difference on the result of both caloric and cVEMP test, compared to those of control groups. CONCLUSION: Nystagmus with horizontal directions and low SPV was dominant form in the attack of VM. Close observation of nystagmus can be helpful to make a correct diagnosis and to understand the pathomechanism of vertigo in VM.

Visuospatial Dysfunction in Patients With the Right Vestibular Neuritis / 대한평형의학회지

Acute vestibular neuritis (VN) is characterized by acute/subacute vertigo with spontaneous nystagmus and unilateral loss of semicircular canal function. Vestibular system in human is represented in the brain bilaterally with functional asymmetries of the right hemispheric dominance in the right handers. Spatial working memory entails the ability to keep spatial information active in working memory over a short period of time which is also known as the right hemispheric dominance. Three patients (patient 1, 32-year-old female; patient 2, 18-year-old male; patient 3, 63-year-old male) suffered from acute onset of severe vertigo, nausea and vomiting. Patients 1 and 2's examination revealed VN on the right side showing spontaneous left beating nystagmus and impaired vestibular ocular reflex on the right side in video head-impulse and caloric tests. Patient 3's finding was fit for VN on the left side. We also evaluated visuospatial memory function with the block design test in these 3 VN patients which discovered lower scores in patients 1 and 2 and the average level in patient 3 compare to those of healthy controls. Follow-up block design test after resolved symptoms showed within normal range in both patients. Our cases suggest that the patients with unilateral peripheral vestibulopathy may have an asymmetrical effect on the higher vestibular cognitive function. The right VN can be associated with transient visuospatial memory dysfunction. These findings add the evidence of significant right hemispheric dominance for vestibular and visuospatial structures in the right-handed subjects, and of predominant dysfunction in the hemisphere ipsilateral to the peripheral lesion side.

Effects of cavity reconstruction on morbidity and quality of life after canal wall down tympanomastoidectomy / Efeitos da reconstrução da cavidade da timpanomastoidectomia com técnica aberta na morbidade e qualidade de vida

Abstract Introduction: Canal wall down tympanomastoidectomy is commonly used to treat advanced chronic otitis media or cholesteatoma. The advantages of canal wall down mastoidectomy are excellent exposure for disease eradication and postoperative control of residual disease; its disadvantages include the accumulation of debris requiring life-long otological maintenance and cleaning, continuous ear drainage, fungal cavity infections, and the occurrence of dizziness and vertigo by changing temperature or pressure. Objective: To evaluate whether cavity-induced problems can be eliminated and patient comfort can be increased with mastoid cavity reconstruction. Methods: In total, 11 patients who underwent mastoid cavity reconstruction between March 2013 and June 2013 comprised the study group, and 11 patients who had dry, epithelialized CWD cavities were recruited as the control group. The study examined three parameters: epithelial migration, air caloric testing, and the Glasgow Benefit Inventory. Epithelial migration, air caloric testing, and the Glasgow Benefit Inventory were evaluated in the study and control groups. Results: The epithelial migration rate was significantly faster in study group (1.63 ± 0.5 mm/week) than control group (0.94 ± 0.37 mm/week) (p = 0.003, p < 0.05). The mean slow component velocity of nystagmus of the study group (13.33 ± 5.36°/s) was significantly lower when compared to control group (32.11 ± 9.12°/s) (p = 0.018). The overall the Glasgow Benefit Inventory score was −7.21, and the general subscale, physical and social health scores were −9.71, −21.09, and +20.35, respectively in the control group. These were +33.93, +35.59, +33.31, and +29.61, respectively in the study group. All but the social health score improved significantly (0.007, 0.008, 0.018, and 0.181, respectively). Conclusions: Cavity reconstruction improves epithelial migration, normalizes caloric responses and increases the quality of life. Thus, cavity rehabilitation eliminates open-cavity-induced problems by restoring the functional anatomy of the ear.

Resumo Introdução: A timpanomastoidectomia com a técnica Canal Wall Down, ou técnica aberta, é comumente utilizada para tratar otite média crônica avançada ou colesteatoma. As vantagens da mastoidectomia pela técnica aberta são uma excelente exposição para a erradicação da doença e controle pós-operatório da doença residual; suas desvantagens incluem o acúmulo de detritos que requerem manutenção e limpeza otológica ao longo da vida, drenagem contínua da orelha, infecções fúngicas na cavidade e a ocorrência de tonturas e vertigem com alterações de temperatura ou pressão. Objetivo: Avaliar se os problemas induzidos pela cavidade podem ser eliminados e o conforto do paciente aumentado com a reconstrução da cavidade mastoide. Método: No total, 11 pacientes submetidos à reconstrução da cavidade mastoide entre março de 2013 e junho de 2013 constituíram o grupo de estudo, e 11 pacientes com cavidades secas e epitelizadas, operadas pela técnica aberta, foram recrutados como grupo controle. O estudo analisou três parâmetros: migração epitelial, prova calórica com estimulação a ar e o questionário Glasgow Benefit Inventory. A migração epitelial, a prova calórica e o Glasgow Benefit Inventory foram avaliados nos grupos de estudo e controle. Resultados: A taxa de migração epitelial foi significativamente mais rápida no grupo de estudo (1,63 ± 0,5 mm/semana) do que no grupo controle (0,94 ± 0,37 mm/semana) (p = 0,003, p < 0,05). A velocidade média do componente lento do nistagmo no grupo de estudo (13,33 ± 5,36°/s) foi significativamente menor se comparada ao grupo controle (32,11 ± 9,12°/s) (p = 0,018). O escore global do Glasgow Benefit Inventory foi de -7,21 e os escores da subescala geral, saúde física e social foram -9,71, -21,09 e +20,35, respectivamente, no grupo controle. Esses escores foram +33,93, +35,59, +33,31 e +29,61, respectivamente, no grupo de estudo. Todos, exceto o escore de saúde social, melhoraram significativamente (0,007, 0,008, 0,018 e 0,181, respectivamente). Conclusões: A reconstrução da cavidade melhora a migração epitelial, normaliza as respostas da prova calórica e aumenta a qualidade de vida. Assim, a reabilitação da cavidade elimina os problemas induzidos por cavidades abertas ao restaurar a anatomia funcional da orelha.

Assessment of the horizontal semicircular canal function after cochlear implantation by video head impulse test and caloric test / 临床耳鼻咽喉头颈外科杂志

To analyze the functional change of horizontal semicircular canals after cochlear implantation.Eighteen patients were enrolled in this study.Their vestibular function was evaluated by using the caloric test and video head impulse test before and one week,one month after CI surgery,respectively.The unilateral weakness(UW),slow phase velocity(SPV)in caloric test and gain in video head impulse test(vHIT-G)were observed.Caloric test was abnormal when UW>25% or SPV mean<6°/s,while vHIT was abnormal when vHIT-G<0.8.The SPV of the implanted ear were[(10.36±8.01)°/s;(14.77±14.24)°/s]pre-operatively,[(6.45±7.52)°/s;(5.14±4.67)°/s]1 week post-operatively and[(6.05±3.86)°/s;(6.27±4.17)°/s]1 month post-operatively.Statistically significant difference(<0.05)was found between pre-and post-operative period.The vHIT-G of the implanted ear were(0.73±0.33)pre-operatively,(0.65±0.32)1 week post-operatively and(0.71±0.36)1 month post-operatively.There was no statistically significant difference of vHIT-G between preand post-operative period((pre-operative/1 week post-operative)=0.084,(pre-operative/1 month post-operative)=0.679).Four patients presented with vertigo and one of them manifested slight unsteadiness post-operatively.All symptoms resolved within 7 days.These symptoms had no correlate with age,gender,implantedear and results of vestibular test.Cochlear implantation can affect the horizontal semicircular canal function,and the video head impulse test and caloric test should be used in a complementary fashion.

Clinical Implication and Proposed Mechanism of Direction Changing Vibration Induced Nystagmus in Unilateral Vestibular Hypofunction / 대한이비인후과학회지

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: We evaluated the clinical characteristics and vestibular function of patients with direction changing vibration induced nystagmus (DC VIN) and unilateral vestibular hypofunction and suggest clinical implication and a proposed mechanism of DC VIN. SUBJECTS AND METHOD: The records of 315 patients who underwent the VIN test were reviewed retrospectively. Among these, 18 patients (5.7%) showed DC VIN, and out of whom, 15 patients (4.8%) were diagnosed as unilateral vestibular hypofunction by caloric, rotation chair (RCT), and video head impulse test (vHIT). We analyzed the relationship between DC VIN and the dizziness characteristics, duration of disease, and the outcome of the vestibular function test. RESULTS: The mean age of 15 patients was 67.4±10.7 years and the mean duration of dizziness was 13.6±29.7 months. The caloric test revealed 25% of the patients to have significant canal paresis [Caloric vestibular neuritis (VN)], while 75% showed normal caloric response. However, unilateral vestibular hypofunction was observed by abnormal results in RCT or vHIT (Non-caloric VN). Seven patients showed ipsilateral DC VIN (nystagmus to vibrated side) and eight patients contralateral DC VIN (nystagmus to opposite side of vibration). Patients with ipsilateral DC VIN were shown to have a significant longer duration of dizziness than those with contralateral DC VIN. CONCLUSION: Although rare, DC VIN can also be found in patients with unilateral vestibular hypofunction. Patients with DC VIN had a mild vestibular asymmetry with Non-caloric VN or Caloric VN in the process of compensation. The mechanism of ipsilateral DC VIN seems to be due to the small amount of vestibular asymmetry, which is smaller than the interaural attenuation of vibration.

Caloric Test as a Possible Prognostic Indicator in Sudden Deafness / 대한이비인후과학회지

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Dizziness has been known as a prognostic factor in sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSHL), but it is difficult to describe and quantify its subjective symptoms. Also, dizziness itself cannot imply vestibular dysfunction in SSHL. Comprehensive evaluation of vestibular function may help us understand the extent of lesions in sudden deafness. The purpose of this study is to determine whether an impaired caloric response is associated with disease severity and hearing outcome. SUBJECTS AND METHOD: A retrospective chart review was conducted of 488 patients diagnosed as unilateral SSHL. The patients were divided into two, an abnormal caloric group (canal paresis >20%) and normal caloric group (canal paresis ≤20%). Initial demographic and audiologic findings and final hearing outcomes were compared between the two groups. RESULTS: The initial pure tone averages of SSHL patients of abnormal caloric group and normal caloric group were 75.4±28.4 dB HL and 68.2±25.4 dB HL (p=0.004), respectively. Patients of abnormal caloric test group showed worse hearing outcome across all frequencies compared to those of the normal caloric group. Also, a significant correlation was noted between the magnitude of hearing recovery and canal paresis (r=-0.223, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: SSHL patients of abnormal caloric test showed worse initial hearing level and poorer hearing outcome. Evaluation of vestibular function in SSHL patients is important because subjective symptoms alone cannot account for vestibular hypofunction patients, and the caloric test can help in the counseling of patients and prediction of hearing outcome in SSHL patients.

Clinical Usefulness of Video Head Impulse Test-Comparison of Bithermal Caloric Test and Bedside Head Impulse Test / 대한이비인후과학회지

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Video head impulse test system (vHIT) is an easy-to-use test and there are numerous studies showing its efficacy. The aim of the study was to evaluate the clinical usefulness of vHIT as an initial test in determining vestibular hypofunction in patients with dizziness. SUBJECTS AND METHOD: The study recruited 103 outpatients who visited our ear clinic with dizziness. We performed both bedside head impulse test (bHIT), vHIT and bithermal caloric tests for 103 patients. Both bHIT and vHIT were consecutively performed in each subject on the same day by the same examiner. RESULTS: The sensitivity of bHIT and vHIT was determined based on the bithermal caloric test results, which showed that vHIT was more sensitive than bHIT. There was a significant negative correlation between vHIT gain and canal paresis (p < 0.05). Results of some patients indicated dissociation between vHIT and caloric test. CONCLUSION: T here is a significant correlation between the results of vHIT and caloric test. Although vHIT does not replace the caloric test, it would be useful to evaluate the initial vestibular loss in patients with dizziness.

Relationship of Vertigo and Postural Instability in Patients With Vestibular Schwannoma

OBJECTIVES: Growth of vestibular schwannomas (VS) causes progressive vestibular symptoms and postural instability. Since the tumor grows slowly, compensation of decaying vestibular input may decrease subjective symptoms of dizziness. This study aims to estimate the relationship of subjective vestibular symptoms and objective postural instability in patients with VS. METHODS: A retrospective review of 18 patients newly diagnosed with VS and with subjective vertigo symptoms was performed. The results of vestibular function tests including the sensory organization test (SOT) using computerized dynamic posturography, caloric test, and self-report measures of subjective dizziness handicap (Dizziness Handicap Inventory) and visual analogue scale were compared according to the onset of vertigo symptoms. RESULTS: In VS patients, SOT showed decreased equilibrium score for all vestibular function related conditions, condition (C) 5 and 6, and composite (COMP) score. COMP scores were not correlated with visual analogue scale or Dizziness Handicap Inventory scores. Acute onset group included six patients and insidious onset group, 12 patients. Equilibrium scores for C5 and C6, and COMP scores were lower for insidious onset group, but the difference was not statistically significant. CONCLUSION: Our findings confirmed postural instability is prevalent in VS patients. SOT parameters did not differ significantly between acute onset and insidious onset groups, but increased tumor size and canal weakness were noted in the insidious onset group. Clinicians should consider that postural instability is likely present even in patients who do not complain of acute vertigo, and appropriate counseling should be discussed with the patients.

Clinical Application and Update of Video Head Impulse Test / 대한평형의학회지

Recently with the introduction of video head impulse test (vHIT), it can be easily performed quantitative and objective measurement of vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR). vHIT has been used as a clinical vestibular function test that can individually evaluate the function of each semicircular canal. Loss of VOR gain and corrective catch-up saccades that occur during the vHIT usually indicate peripheral vestibular hypofunction, whereas in acute vestibular syndrome, normal vHIT should prompt a search for a central lesion. In this study, we will examine the principle of vHIT and its interpretation, and explain its clinical application in peripheral and central vestibulopathy. In addition, we will compare the caloric test and the differences, and review the most recently introduced suppression head impulse paradigm test.

The Clinical Efficacy of Vestibular Function Tests in Patients with Acute Unilateral Vestibulopathy / 대한평형의학회지

OBJECTIVES: Aim of this study is to investigate the clinical efficacy of the vestibular function tests (VFTs) and the predictability of lesion side of vestibular asymmetry parameters in acute unilateral peripheral vestibulopathy. METHODS: Medical records and results of VFTs (caloric, rotatory chair, and head impulse tests) of 57 patients with acute unilateral vestibulopathy were reviewed retrospectively. The VFTs were examined within 7 days after the clinical onset. RESULTS: For the caloric test, 74% showed significant canal paresis and the predictability of lesion side was 88%. For the sinusoidal harmonic acceleration test, 91% had low gain in at least 1 Hz, phase lead showed 70%, 89% showed phase asymmetry and the predictability of lesion side was 90%. For velocity step test, 67% had abnormal Tc asymmetry and the predictability of lesion side was 95%. In bedside head impulse test (HIT), abnormal catch up saccades were observed in 89% and the predictability of lesion side was 100%. For the video HIT, cover or overt catch-up saccades were observed in 95% and the predictability of lesion side was 100%. One hundred percent (100%) had low gain on the video HIT, but the lesion sides were uncertain because of bilateral involvements or artifacts. CONCLUSIONS: The most important things in the diagnosis of acute unilateral vestibulopathy are typical clinical symptoms and spontaneous nystagmus. A combination of rotatory, caloric, and HITs will result in a more complete examination of the vestibular system. Among them, HIT is recommended as the best tool in acute unilateral vestibulopathy.