A new treatment for cervical dizziness

Abstract Objectives: To verify the rates of heat effectiveness generated by Carbon Nanotubes (CNT) in the resolution of dizziness in individuals diagnosed with Cervical Dizziness (CD). Methods: Randomized clinical trial was performed and samples from volunteers diagnosed with CD, divided into a Study Group (SG) and Control Group (CG). Patches containing CNT with thermotherapeutic effect were used in SG and inert patches in the CG. Treatment was performed over 30 days and measures of pain, dizziness and asymmetry of cervical muscle tension were evaluated over 60 days. Results: Pain, dizziness and asymmetry of cervical muscle tension were reduced in the SG. The variables analyzed in this study did not change in the CG. Conclusion: Our results show that the therapeutic effect of heat was effective in the treatment of patients diagnosed with CD. We could also observe a clear interrelationship between pain and dizziness symptoms with the asymmetry of cervical muscle tension. Level of evidence: 1B.

Vestibular recruitment: new application for an old concept / Recrutamento vestibular: nova aplicação para um conceito antigo

Abstract Introduction Vestibular recruitment is a sign of hyperexcitability of central vestibular neurons and may be characteristic of peripheral vestibular damage. Objective To define the post-caloric recruitment index and its ability to predict the stage of vestibular compensation and peripheral lesion. Methods First of all, we demonstrated that larger values in the cold post-caloric stimulation compared to warm stimulation were equivalent to vestibular recruitment observed during the sinusoidal harmonic acceleration test. In the next step, patients with vestibular complaints and asymptomatic controls were submitted to the caloric test. We calculated post-caloric recruitment index for the control group. Among the study group, we analyzed the relation between post-caloric recruitment and unilateral weakness as well as the types of vestibular diagnoses. Results Mean post-caloric recruitment was 17.06% and 33.37% among the control and study group, respectively. The ratio between post-caloric recruitment and unilateral weakness was 1.3 in the study group. Among recruiting subjects, no significant difference of unilateral weakness from the lesioned or healthy side was observed. We found no differences in vestibular diagnoses between recruiting and non-recruiting subjects. Conclusion Post-caloric recruitment index identified asymmetric vestibular tonus and central compensation. The normal value was established at 17.06%.

Resumo Introdução O recrutamento vestibular é um sinal de hiperexcitabilidade dos neurônios vestibulares centrais e pode ser característico de lesão vestibular periférica. Objetivo Definir o índice de recrutamento pós‐calórico e sua capacidade de predizer o estágio de compensação vestibular e lesão periférica. Método Em primeiro lugar, demonstramos que valores maiores na estimulação pós‐calórica fria em relação à estimulação quente foram equivalentes ao recrutamento vestibular observado durante o teste de aceleração harmônica sinusoidal. Na etapa seguinte, os pacientes com queixas vestibulares e controles assintomáticos foram submetidos à prova calórica. Calculamos o índice de recrutamento pós calórico para o grupo controle. No grupo de estudo, analisamos a relação entre o recrutamento pós‐calórico e predomínio labiríntico, bem como os tipos de diagnósticos vestibulares. Resultados O recrutamento pós‐calórico médio foi de 17,06% e 33,37% nos grupos controle e estudo, respectivamente. A razão entre o recrutamento pós‐calórico e o predominício labiríntico foi de 1,3 no grupo de estudo. Nos sujeitos com recrutamento, não foi observada diferença significativa de predominício labiríntico do lado lesionado ou saudável. Não encontramos diferenças de diagnóstico vestibular entre sujeitos com recrutamento e sem recrutamento. Conclusão O índice de recrutamento pós‐calórico identificou tônus vestibular assimétrico e compensação central. O valor normal foi estabelecido em 17,06%.

Cerebral Responses to Stationary Emotional Stimuli Measured by fMRI in Women with Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness

Abstract Introduction Persistent postural-perceptual dizziness (PPPD) is a functional vestibular disorder characterized by chronic dizziness, unsteadiness, and hypersensitivity to motion. Preexisting anxiety disorders and neurotic personality traits confer vulnerability to PPPD. High anxiety during acute vertigo or dizziness incites it. A functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) study of chronic subjective dizziness found unexpectedly hypoactive responses to vestibular stimulation in cortical regions that integrate threat assessment and spatial perception. Objective This fMRI study used non-moving, but emotionally charged visual stimuli to investigate the brain's activity of PPPD patients and control subjects. Methods The participants included 16 women with PPPD and 16 age-matched women who recovered completely from acute episodes of vertigo or dizziness capable of triggering PPPD. Brain responses to positive, neutral, and negative figures from the International Affective Picture System were measured with fMRI and compared between the groups. Dizziness handicap, anxiety, and depression were assessed with validated questionnaires. Results Between group analyses: Participants with PPPD showed reduced activity in anterior cingulate cortex and increased activity in left angular gyrus in response to negative versus positive stimuli, which was not observed in recovered individuals. Within group analyses: Participants with PPPD had increased activity in visuospatial areas (parahippocampal gyrus, intraparietal sulcus) in negative versus positive and negative versus neutral contrasts, whereas recovered individuals had increased activity in anxiety regions (amygdala, orbitofrontal cortex). Conclusion Patients with PPPD may be more attuned to spatial elements than to the content of emotionally charged visual stimuli.

Neurotology: definitions and evidence-based therapies - Results of the I Brazilian Forum of Neurotology / Otoneurologia: definições e terapias baseadas em evidências - Resultados do I Fórum Brasileiro de Otoneurologia

Abstract Introduction: Neurotology is a rapidly expanding field of knowledge. The study of the vestibular system has advanced so much that even basic definitions, such as the meaning of vestibular symptoms, have only recently been standardized. Objective: To present a review of the main subjects of neurotology, including concepts, diagnosis and treatment of Neurotology, defining current scientific evidence to facilitate decision-making and to point out the most evidence-lacking areas to stimulate further new research. Methods: This text is the result of the I Brazilian Forum of Neurotology, which brought together the foremost Brazilian researchers in this area for a literature review. In all, there will be three review papers to be published. This first review will address definitions and therapies, the second one will address diagnostic tools, and the third will define the main diseases diagnoses. Each author performed a bibliographic search in the LILACS, SciELO, PubMed and MEDLINE databases on a given subject. The text was then submitted to the other Forum participants for a period of 30 days for analysis. A special chapter, on the definition of vestibular symptoms, was translated by an official translation service, and equally submitted to the other stages of the process. There was then a in-person meeting in which all the texts were orally presented, and there was a discussion among the participants to define a consensual text for each chapter. The consensual texts were then submitted to a final review by four professors of neurotology disciplines from three Brazilian universities and finally concluded. Based on the full text, available on the website of the Brazilian Association of Otorhinolaryngology and Cervical-Facial Surgery, this summary version was written as a review article. Result: The text presents the official translation into Portuguese of the definition of vestibular symptoms proposed by the Bárány Society and brings together the main scientific evidence for each of the main existing therapies for neurotological diseases. Conclusion: This text rationally grouped the main topics of knowledge regarding the definitions and therapies of Neurotology, allowing the reader a broad view of the approach of neurotological patients based on scientific evidence and national experience, which should assist them in clinical decision-making, and show the most evidence-lacking topics to stimulate further study.

Resumo Introdução: A otoneurologia é uma área de conhecimento que tem se expandido muito rapidamente. O estudo do sistema vestibular tem avançado tanto que mesmo definições básicas, como o significado dos sintomas vestibulares, foram apenas recentemente padronizadas. Objetivo: Apresentar uma revisão dos principais assuntos da otoneurologia, inclusive conceitos, diagnóstico e tratamento da otoneurologia, definir a evidência científica atual para facilitar a tomada de decisões e demonstrar as áreas mais carentes de evidência para estimular novas pesquisas. Método: Este texto é fruto do I Fórum Brasileiro de Otoneurologia, que reuniu os principais pesquisadores brasileiros dessa área para uma revisão da literatura. Serão feitos três trabalhos de revisão a serem publicados. Este primeiro abordou as definições e as terapias, o segundo abordará as ferramentas diagnósticas e o terceiro definirá os principais diagnósticos. Cada autor fez um levantamento bibliográfico na base de dados da Lilacs, SciELO, Pubmed e Medline de um determinado assunto. O seu texto foi então submetido aos demais participantes do Fórum por 30 dias para análise. Um capítulo especial, da definição dos sintomas vestibulares, foi traduzido por serviço de tradução oficial e igualmente submetido às demais etapas do processo. Houve então uma reunião presencial em que todos os textos foram apresentados oralmente e houve uma discussão entre os participantes para a definição de um texto consensual para cada capítulo. Os textos consensuais foram então submetidos a uma revisão final por quatro professores de otoneurologia de três universidades brasileiras e, por fim, finalizado. A partir do texto completo, publicado no site da Associação Brasileira de Otorrinolaringologia e Cirurgia Cérvico-Facial, foi escrita esta versão-resumo como artigo de revisão. Resultado: O texto apresenta a tradução oficial para o português da definição dos sintomas vestibulares propostos pela Barany Society e agrupa as principais evidências científicas para cada um das principais terapias existentes para as doenças otoneurológicas. Conclusão: Este texto agrupou de forma racional os principais tópicos de conhecimento a respeito das definições e terapias da otoneurologia, permite ao leitor uma visão ampla da abordagem dos pacientes otoneurológicos baseada em evidências científicas e experiência nacional, que deverá auxiliá-lo na tomada de decisões clínicas, e mostra os assuntos mais carentes de evidência para estimular novos estudos.

Magnetic resonance angiography and transcranial Doppler ultrasound findings in patients with a clinical diagnosis of vertebrobasilar insufficiency

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the findings of magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) and transcranial Doppler ultrasound (TCD) in patients with a clinical diagnosis of vertebrobasilar insufficiency (VBI). METHOD: From our outpatient neurotology clinic, we selected patients (using the criteria proposed by Grad and Baloh) with a clinical diagnosis of VBI. We excluded patients with any definite cause for vestibular symptoms, a noncontrolled metabolic disease or any contraindication to MRA or TCD. The patients in the study group were sex- and age-matched with subjects who did not have vestibular symptoms (control group). Our final group of patients included 24 patients (study, n=12; control, n=12). RESULTS: The MRA results did not demonstrate significant differences in the findings between our study and control groups. TCD demonstrated that the systolic pulse velocity of the right middle cerebral artery, end diastolic velocity of the basilar artery, pulsatility index (PI) of the left middle cerebral artery, PI of the right middle cerebral artery, and PI of the basilar artery were significantly higher in the study group than in the control group, suggesting abnormalities affecting the microcirculation of patients with a clinical diagnosis of VBI compared with controls. CONCLUSION: MRA failed to reveal abnormalities in patients with a clinical diagnosis of VBI compared with controls. The PI of the basilar artery, measured using TCD, demonstrated high sensitivity (91%) and specificity (91%) for detecting clinically diagnosed VBI.

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.

P3 Cognitive Potential in Cochlear Implant Users

Abstract Introduction The P3 cognitive evoked potential is recorded when a subject correctly identifies, evaluates and processes two different auditory stimuli. Objective to evaluate the latency and amplitude of the P3 evoked potential in 26 cochlear implant users with post-lingual deafness with good or poor speech recognition scores as compared with normal hearing subjects matched for age and educational level. Methods In this prospective cohort study, auditory cortical responses were recorded from 26 post-lingual deaf adult cochlear implant users (19 with good and 7 with poor speech recognition scores) and 26 control subjects. Results There was a significant difference in the P3 latency between cochlear implant users with poor speech recognition scores (G-) and their control group (CG) (p= 0.04), and between G- and cochlear implant users with good speech discrimination (G+) (p= 0.01). We found no significant difference in the P3 latency between the CG and G+. In this study, all G- patients had deafness due to meningitis, which suggests that higher auditory function was impaired too. Conclusion Post-lingual deaf adult cochlear implant users in the G- group had prolonged P3 latencies as compared with the CG and the cochlear implant users in the G+ group. The amplitudes were similar between patients and controls. All G- subjects were deaf due to meningitis. These findings suggest that meningitis may have deleterious effects not only on the peripheral auditory system but on the central auditory processing as well.

Preoperative vestibular assessment protocol of cochlear implant surgery: an analytical descriptive study / Protocolo de avaliação vestibular pré-operatória da cirurgia de implante coclear: estudo descritivo analítico

Abstract Introduction: Cochlear implants are undeniably an effective method for the recovery of hearing function in patients with hearing loss. Objective: To describe the preoperative vestibular assessment protocol in subjects who will be submitted to cochlear implants. Methods: Our institutional protocol provides the vestibular diagnosis through six simple tests: Romberg and Fukuda tests, assessment for spontaneous nystagmus, Head Impulse Test, evaluation for Head Shaking Nystagmus and caloric test. Results: 21 patients were evaluated with a mean age of 42.75 ± 14.38 years. Only 28% of the sample had all normal test results. The presence of asymmetric vestibular information was documented through the caloric test in 32% of the sample and spontaneous nystagmus was an important clue for the diagnosis. Bilateral vestibular areflexia was present in four subjects, unilateral arreflexia in three and bilateral hyporeflexia in two. The Head Impulse Test was a significant indicator for the diagnosis of areflexia in the tested ear (p = 0.0001). The sensitized Romberg test using a foam pad was able to diagnose severe vestibular function impairment (p = 0.003). Conclusion: The six clinical tests were able to identify the presence or absence of vestibular function and function asymmetry between the ears of the same individual.

Resumo Introdução: Os implantes cocleares (IC) são indiscutivelmente um método eficaz de recuperação da função auditiva de pacientes surdos. Objetivo: Descrever o protocolo de avaliação vestibular pré-operatória em sujeitos que serão submetidos ao IC. Método: Nosso protocolo institucional prevê o diagnóstico vestibular por meio de seis testes simples: testes de Romberg e Fukuda, nistagmo espontâneo, Head Impulse Test, Head Shaking Nistagmus, prova calórica. Resultados: Foram avaliados 21 pacientes com média de 42,75 ± 14,38 anos. Apenas 28% da amostra apresentaram todos os testes normais. A presença de informação vestibular assimétrica foi documentada pela prova calórica em 32% da amostra e o nistagmo espontâneo mostrou-se pista importante para seu diagnóstico. A arreflexia vestibular bilateral foi diagnosticada em quatro sujeitos; arreflexia unilateral em três e hiporreflexia bilateral em dois. O Head Impulse Test mostrou-se indicador significante (p = 0,0001) para diagnosticar arreflexia da orelha testada. O teste de Romberg sensibilizado em almofada foi capaz de diagnosticar os comprometimentos severos da função vestibular (p = 0,003). Conclusão: Os seis testes clínicos foram capazes de identificar a presença ou não de função vestibular e assimetria da função entre as orelhas de um mesmo indivíduo.

Pathophysiology and Diagnosis of Vertebrobasilar Insufficiency: A Review of the Literature

Abstract Introduction Vertebrobasilar insufficiency is defined as transitory ischemia of the vertebrobasilar circulation. Dizziness, vertigo, headaches, vomit, diplopia, blindness, ataxia, imbalance, and weakness in both sides of the body are the most common symptoms. Objective To review the literature regarding the three available diagnostic testing in patients with dizziness complaints secondary to vertebrobasilar insufficiency (VBI): magnetic resonance angiography; transcranial Doppler ultrasound; and vertebrobasilar deprivation testing. Data Synthesis We selected 28 studies that complied with our selection criteria for appraisal. The most frequent cause of the hemodynamic changes leading to VBI is atherosclerosis. The main clinical symptoms are dizziness, vertigo, headaches, vomit, diplopia, blindness, ataxia, imbalance, and weakness in both sides of the body. Even though arteriography is considered the most important exam to diagnose the disease, the inherent risks of this exam should be taken into consideration. The magnetic resonance angiography has been widely studied and is a good method to identify and localize any occlusions and stenosis in both neck and intracranial great vessels. Conclusion Each patient with a suspected diagnosis of VBI should be individually evaluated and treated, taking in consideration the pros and cons of each diagnostic testing and treatment option.

Sensitivity of caloric test and video head impulse as screening test for chronic vestibular complaints

OBJECTIVE: This study compared the results of the caloric test with those of the video head impulse test obtained during the same session and evaluated whether the former can be used to screen for non-acute vestibular dysfunction. METHODS: A total of 157 participants complaining of dizziness with vestibular characteristics of varying durations and clinical courses completed the caloric test and video head impulse test. RESULTS: Significantly more caloric test results than video head impulse test results were abnormal. CONCLUSIONS: The results of the caloric test and video head impulse test are distinct but complement each other. Within our sample, the caloric test was more sensitive for vestibular dysfunction. Therefore, the video head impulse test is not a suitable screening tool of the vestibular system in patients with chronic complaints.

Efficacy of Carbon Microcoils in Relieving Cervicogenic Dizziness

Abstract Introduction Cervical pain contributes to postural deviations and imbalance. Nanotechnology may be used for the treatment of neck pain by fixing to the skin small rounds silicone patches containing double spiral carbon nanotubes arranged in the form of a coil (Helical), which would then relieve dizziness caused by muscular contraction. Objective The objective of this study is to Evaluate pain and dizziness scores before and after Helical patches effect on cervicogenic dizziness treatment. Methods The selected patients should have neck pain arising from muscle contraction with loss of balance or instability lasting more than 90 days and normal electrooculography. Treatment consisted of placing 10 Helical patches distributed as follows: two in the upper cervical area, two in the lower cervical area (near the 5th and 6th vertebrae), two in the upper trapezius muscle area (between neck and shoulder), and four in the tender point area (as reported by the patient). Using a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), we matched pain and dizziness scores from Day 1 to those from Day 15 and Day 30 using Mann-Whitney test. Results There was a significant difference between pain score reported on Day 1 and Day 15 (Z = 2.43, U = 5, p = 0.01). We also found significant differences between dizziness scores reportedondays1 and15 (Z = 2.62, U = 3.5, p = 0.01) and days 1 and 30 (Z = 2.36, U = 5.5, p = 0.01). Conclusion The Helical patches seem to be an effective treatment for cervicogenic dizziness.

Hearing performance as a predictor of postural recovery in cochlear implant users / Desempenho auditivo como preditor de recuperação postural em usuários de implante coclear

Abstract Objective This study aimed to evaluate if hearing performance is a predictor of postural control in cochlear implant (CI) users at least six months after surgery. Methods Cross-sectional study including (CI) recipients with post-lingual deafness and controls who were divided into the following groups: nine CI users with good hearing performance (G+), five CI users with poor hearing performance (G−), and seven controls (CG). For each patient, computerized dynamic posturography (CDP) tests, a sensory organization test (SOT), and an adaptation test (ADT) were applied as dual task performance, with first test (FT) and re-test (RT) on the same day, including a 40–60 min interval between them to evaluate the short-term learning ability on postural recovery strategies. The results of the groups were compared. Results Comparing the dual task performance on CDP and the weighted average between all test conditions, the G+ group showed better performance on RT in SOT4, SOT5, SOT6, and CS, which was not observed for G− and CG. The G− group had significantly lower levels of short-term learning ability than the other two groups in SOT5 (p = 0.021), SOT6 (p = 0.025), and CS (p = 0.031). Conclusion The CI users with good hearing performance had a higher index of postural recovery when compared to CI users with poor hearing performance.

Resumo Objetivo O presente estudo teve por objetivo avaliar se o desempenho auditivo é preditor de controle postural em usuários de IC pelo menos seis meses após a cirurgia. Método Estudo transversal que consistiu em recipientes de implante coclear (IC) com surdez pós-lingual e controles, que foram divididos nos seguintes grupos: nove usuários de IC com bom desempenho auditivo (G+), cinco usuários de usuários de IC com desempenho auditivo insatisfatório (G-) e sete controles (GC). Aplicamos os testes de posturografia dinâmica computadorizada (PDC), de organização sensitiva (TOS) e de adaptação (TAd) como desempenho de dupla tarefa, primeiro teste (PT) e reteste (RT) no mesmo dia, com intervalo de 40-60 minutos entre testes, com o objetivo de avaliar a capacidade de aprendizado em curto prazo nas estratégias de recuperação postural. Comparamos os resultados dos testes. Resultados Na comparação do desempenho de dupla tarefa no teste PDC e a média ponderal entre todas as condições de teste, o grupo G+ demonstrou melhor desempenho no RT nos TOS4, TOS5, TOS6 e EC, o que não foi observado para os grupos G- e GC. O grupo G- obteve níveis significantemente mais baixos de capacidade de aprendizado em curto prazo vs. outros dois grupos no TOS5 (p = 0,021), TOS6 (p = 0,025) e EC (p = 0,031). Conclusão Usuários de IC com bom desempenho auditivo tiveram índice melhor de recuperação postural, quando comparados com usuários de IC com desempenho auditivo insatisfatório.

Glucose metabolism disorders and vestibular manifestations: evaluation through computerized dynamic posturography / Distúrbios do metabolismo da glicose e manifestações vestibulares: avaliação pela posturografia dinâmica computadorizada

ABSTRACT INTRODUCTION: Global sugar consumption has increased in the past 50 years; its abusive intake is responsible for peripheral insulin resistance, which causes the metabolic syndrome - obesity, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and coronary heart disease. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of a fractionated diet without glucose as treatment for labyrinthine disorders associated with glucose-insulin index. METHODS: The study design was a prospective randomized controlled trial. Fifty-one patients were divided into two groups: the diet group (DG), which comprised subjects treated with a fractionated diet with glucose restriction, and the control group (CG), in which individuals were not counseled regarding diet. Patients underwent computerized dynamic posturography (CDP) and visual analog scale (VAS) on the first and 30th days of the study. RESULTS: There was improvement in the assessed posturographic conditions and VAS self-assessment in the DG group after 30 days when compared to the control group. CONCLUSION: The fractionated diet with glucose restriction was effective for the treatment of vestibular dysfunction associated with glucose metabolism disorders.

Resumo Introdução: O consumo mundial de açúcar triplicou nos últimos 50 anos e a sua ingesta abusiva é responsável pela resistência periférica à insulina que origina a síndrome metabólica-obesidade, diabetes mellitus, hipertensão arterial e doenças coronarianas. Objetivo: Avaliar de forma objetiva o efeito da dieta fracionada e sem glicose como forma de tratamento dos distúrbios labirínticos associados às alterações da curva glicoinsulinêmica. Método: Trata-se de um ensaio clínico controlado randomizado prospectivo. Estudo realizado com 51 pacientes divididos em dois grupos: Grupo Dieta composto por indivíduos tratados com dieta fracionada com restrição de glicose e Grupo Controle no qual os indivíduos não foram orientados em relação à dieta. Os pacientes realizaram Posturografia Dinâmica Computadorizada e Escala Análogo Visual no primeiro e trigésimo dias do estudo. Resultados: Foi observada melhora nas condições posturográficas avaliadas e melhora clínica do grupo dieta na análise da escala análogo visual quando comparados grupo dieta e grupo controle. Conclusão: A dieta fracionada e restritiva de glicose mostrou-se eficaz no tratamento das disfunções vestibulares associadas aos distúrbios do metabolismo da glicose.

Effects of vibrotactile vestibular substitution on vestibular rehabilitation - preliminary study, / Efeitos do biofeedback vibrotátil na reabilitação do equilíbrio corporal − estudo preliminar

ABSTRACT INTRODUCTION: Some patients with severe impairment of body balance do not obtain adequate improvement from vestibular rehabilitation (VR). OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of Vertiguard(tm) biofeedback equipment as a sensory substitution (SS) of the vestibular system in patients who did not obtain sufficient improvement from VR. METHODS: This was a randomized prospective clinical study. Thirteen patients without satisfactory response to conventional VR were randomized into a study group (SG), which received the vibrotactile stimulus from Vertiguard(tm) for ten days, and a control group (CG), which used equipment without the stimulus. For pre- and post-treatment assessment, the Sensory Organization Test (SOT) protocol of the Computerized Dynamic Posturography (CDP) and two scales of balance self-perception, Activities-specific Balance Confidence (ABC) and Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI), were used. RESULTS: After treatment, only the SG showed statistically significant improvement in C5 (p = 0.007) and C6 (p = 0.01). On the ABC scale, there was a significant difference in the SG (p= 0.04). The DHI showed a significant difference in CG and SG with regard to the physical aspect, and only in the SG for the functional aspect (p = 0.04). CONCLUSION: The present findings show that sensory substitution using the vibrotactile stimulus of the Vertiguard(tm) system helped with the integration of neural networks involved in maintaining posture, improving the strategies used in the recovery of body balance.

RESUMO INTRODUÇÃO: Alguns pacientes com déficit severo do equilíbrio corporal submetidos à reabilitação vestibular (RV) podem não apresentar resultados satisfatórios. OBJETIVO: Verificar a eficácia do equipamento de biofeedback Vertiguard(tm) como substituto sensorial do sistema vestibular em pacientes sem bons resultados à RV. MÉTODO: Estudo prospectivo clínico randomizado. Treze pacientes sem resposta satisfatória à RV convencional foram randomizados entre grupo de estudo (GE), que utilizou o estímulo vibratório do Vertiguard(tm) por dez dias e grupo controle (GC) que usou o equipamento desligado. Para avaliação pré e pós-tratamento foi utilizado o protocolo Teste de Integração Sensorial (TIS) da Posturografia Dinâmica Computadorizada (PDC) e duas escalas de autopercepção do equilíbrio: ABC (Activities-specific Balance Confidence) e DHI (Dizziness Handicap Inventory). RESULTADOS: Apenas o GE apresentou melhora estatisticamente significante em C5 (p = 0,007) e C6 (p = 0,01) da PDC após treinamento. Na escala ABC houve diferença significante no GE (p = 0,04). No DHI ocorreu diferença significante no aspecto físico em ambos os grupos e no aspecto funcional (p= 0,04) apenas no GE. CONCLUSÃO: O estímulo de substituição sensorial do Vertiguard(tm) auxiliou a integração das redes neurais e na manutenção da postura, melhorando as estratégias utilizadas na recuperação do equilíbrio corporal.

Clinical characteristics of patients with persistent postural-perceptual dizziness / Caracterização clínica dos pacientes com tontura postural-perceptual persistente (TPPP)

INTRODUCTION: Persistent postural-perceptual dizziness is the dizziness that lasts for over three months with no clinical explanation for its persistence. The patient's motor response pattern presents changes and most patients manifest significant anxiety. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the clinical characteristics of patients with persistent postural and perceptual dizziness. METHODS: statistical analysis of clinical aspects of patients with persistent postural-perceptual dizziness. RESULTS: 81 patients, average age: 50.06 ± 12.16 years; female/male ratio: 5.7/1; main reasons for dizziness: visual stimuli (74%), body movements (52%), and sleep deprivation (38%). The most prevalent comorbidities were hypercholesterolemia (31%), migraine headaches (26%), carbohydrate metabolism disorders (22%) and cervical syndrome (21%). DHI, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory - Trait, Beck Depression Inventory, and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale questionnaires were statistically different (p < 0.05) when compared to controls. 68% demonstrated clinical improvement after treatment with serotonin reuptake inhibitors. CONCLUSION: Persistent postural-perceptual dizziness affects more women than men, with a high associated prevalence of metabolic disorders and migraine. Questionnaires help to identify the predisposition to persistent postural-perceptual dizziness. The prognosis is good with adequate treatment. .

INTRODUÇÃO: A denominação tontura postural-perceptual persistente (TPPP) é atribuida à tontura que se mantém por mais de 3 meses em pacientes, sem que exista justificativa clínica para a sua persistência. A maioria dos pacientes possui perfil ansioso ou experimenta alto grau de ansiedade no início dos sintomas. O padrão de resposta motora apresenta-se alterado, com hipervigilância e hipersensibilidade a estímulos visuais e de movimento. OBJETIVO: Avaliar as características clínicas de pacientes com diagnóstico de TPPP. MÉTODO: Análise dos aspectos clínicos de pacientes do ambulatório de TPPP e quantificação do perfil ansioso ou depressivo. RESULTADOS: Foram avaliados 81 pacientes, com média de idade de 50,06 ± 12,16 anos; relação mulher/homem de 5,7/1; principais gatilhos para tontura: estímulos visuais (74%), movimentos corporais (52%) e privação de sono (38%). As comorbidades mais prevalentes foram hipercolesterolemia (31%), migrânea (26%), distúrbios do metabolismo do açúcar (22%) e síndrome cervical (21%). Os questionários DHI, STAI-Traço, Beck para depressão e HADS foram estatisticamente diferentes (P < 0,05) entre pacientes e controles. 68% de melhora clínica com o uso de inibidores da recaptação da serotonina. CONCLUSÃO: TPPP acomete principalmente as mulheres, sendo alta a associação com distúrbios metabólicos e migrânea. Os questionários auxiliam na identificação da predisposição à TPPP. Há bom prognóstico com o tratamento adequado. .

Tinnitus prevalence in the city of São Paulo / Prevalência do zumbido na cidade de São Paulo

INTRODUCTION: The public and private health care in the city of São Paulo has no data on tinnitus prevalence. OBJECTIVE: Determine tinnitus prevalence in São Paulo city. STUDY DESIGN: Series study. METHODS: Cross-sectional study by field questionnaire with 1960 interviews. Predictor variables included gender, age, tinnitus. RESULTS: The prevalence of tinnitus was 22%. It affects more women (26%) than men (17%) and increases with advancing age. Approximately one third of cases (32%) assert that they have constant tinnitus (i.e., "ringing"), while most describe intermittent tinnitus (68%). The majority (64%) reported feeling annoyed, while others (36%) denied any annoyance. Among women, the occurrence of an annoying tinnitus was significantly higher (73%) than among men (50%). The percentages were: mildly annoying (11%), moderately annoying (55%), and severely annoying (34%). Tinnitus interferes with daily activities in 18% of those reporting to be annoyed. CONCLUSION: The population in the city of São Paulo suffering from tinnitus was more prevalent than previously estimated. Generally, it affects more women and those without occupation, and increases significantly with age. Most respondents described the tinnitus as annoying, and this was more prevalent in females. The degree of discomfort measured by a Visual Analogue Scale showed moderate tinnitus, with responses averaging 6.3. .

INTRODUÇÃO: As redes pública e privada de saúde na cidade de São Paulo não possuem dados sobre a prevalência de zumbido. OBJETIVO: Determinar a prevalência do zumbido na população paulistana. DESENHO DO ESTUDO: Estudo de Série. MÉTODO: Estudo transversal por questionário de campo totalizando 1960 entrevistas. RESULTADOS: A prevalência de zumbido observada foi de 22%. Acomete mais mulheres (26%) do que homens (17%). Observou-se crescimento progressivo da prevalência com o aumento da idade. Cerca de 1/3 dos casos (32%) têm zumbido constante, enquanto a maioria refere zumbido intermitente (68%). A maioria (64%) declarou se sentir incomodada, os demais (36%) negaram qualquer incomodo; neste quesito o percentual de mulheres foi significantemente maior (73%)que o de homens (50%). Os percentuais observados foram: incômodo leve (11%), incômodo moderado (55%), e incomodo severo (34%). O zumbido interfere nas atividades diárias em 18% dos sujeitos. CONCLUSÃO: O zumbido na cidade de São Paulo mostrou-se mais prevalente do que o previamente estimado. Acometem mais frequentemente mulheres e indivíduos sem ocupação, aumentando significantemente com a idade. A maioria refere se incomodar com o zumbido, sendo a queixa mais prevalente nas mulheres. O incômodo médio aferido pela escala visual analógica apontou zumbido moderado com nota de 6,3. .

Dizziness profile and clinical features: a population based survey in São Paulo City, Brazil / Perfil e características clínicas de tontura: um estudo baseado na população da cidade de São Paulo

OBJECTIVE: This is a cross-sectional epidemiological survey designed to estimate the prevalence of dizziness among the adult population of the city of São Paulo, Brazil, and to describe the clinical features and level of discomfort. METHOD: This population based study was conductedin the city of São Paulo, Brazil, between April and October 2012. A total of 1,960 household interviews were completed. The following variables were assessed: gender, age, clinical characteristics of dizziness, and dizziness disability index. Chi-square test, Student's t-test,Tukey test and logistic regression were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: The dizziness prevalence in São Paulo was 42%. Peaks of dizziness were observed in two age groups: 49% among the 46 to 55 year-old, and 44% among the elderly subjects(> 65 years-old). Vestibular vertigo was detected in 8.3% of patients, with a strong female preponderance (p < 0.001). Symptoms caused disability in 27% of the affected respondents and were more frequent among women (p < 0.001). These sought medical care more frequently (p < 0.001). The dizziness disability index was significantly higher (p = 0.0165) among subjects with a lower educational level. There was no correlation between dizziness discomfort and the type of job. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of dizziness in São Paulo, Brazil, was established at 42%. Among the symptomatic subjects, 67% reported interruption of daily activities, but only 46% of them sought medical attention.

RESUMO OBJETIVO: Estudo epidemiológico transversal, desenvolvido para avaliar a prevalência de tontura entre a população adulta da cidade de São Paulo, Brasil, e descrever as características clínicas e nível de desconforto. MÉTODO: Estudo de base populacional na cidade de São Paulo, Brasil, entre abril e outubro de 2012. Um total de 1.960 entrevistas domiciliares foram concluídas. As seguintes variáveis foram analisadas: sexo, idade, características clínicas de tonturas e vertigens, índice de incapacidade. Os testes qui-quadrado, "t" de Student, Tukey e regressão logística foram utilizados para análise estatística. RESULTADOS: Aprevalência de tontura em São Paulo foi de 42%. Em dois grupos etários, foram observados picos de tontura: 49% entre os 46 e 55 anos de idade e 44% entre os idosos (> 65 anos de idade). Vertigem vestibular foi detectada em 8,3%, com uma forte preponderância para o sexo feminino (p <0,001). Os sintomas causaram deficiência em 27% dos entrevistados, com predominância entre as mulheres (p <0,001), que procuraram atendimento médico commais freqüência (p <0,001). O índice de incapacidade por tontura foi significativamente maior (p = 0,0165) entre os indivíduos com menor escolaridade. Não houve correlação entre desconforto por tontura e o tipo de emprego. CONCLUSÃO: Aprevalência de tontura em São Paulo, Brasil, foi estabelecida em 42%. Entre os pacientes sintomáticos, 67% relataram a interrupção das atividades diárias, mas apenas 46% deles procuraram atendimento médico.

Estudo epidemiologico populacional da prevalencia de tontura na cidade de Sao Paulo / Population epidemiological study on the prevalence of dizziness in the city of Sao Paulo

A epidemiologia da tontura é fundamental na prática clínica. OBJETIVO: Determinar a prevalência de tontura na população adulta de São Paulo; suas características clínicas e seu grau de incômodo. MÉTODO: Estudo prospectivo transversal de abril e outubro de 2012 por questionário de campo, totalizando 1.960 entrevistas. Variáveis preditoras avaliadas foram, sexo, idade, tipo de tontura e índice de incapacidade provocado pela tontura. As ferramentas estatísticas para avaliar a significância entre as variáveis foram os testes do qui-quadrado, t de Student e regressão logística. Intervalo de confiança de 95% para as estimativas produzidas. RESULTADOS: A prevalência da tontura na cidade de São Paulo foi estabelecida em 42%. Foram encontrados dois picos da queixa, 49% na faixa de 46 a 55 anos e 44% nos idosos. As tonturas vestibulares foram estimadas em 8,3% da população e afetam preferencialmente as mulheres (p < 0,001). O sintoma causa incapacidade em 27% dos entrevistados sintomáticos e incomoda mais frequentemente o sexo feminino (p < 0,001), que procura atendimento médico com maior frequência (p < 0,001). CONCLUSÃO: A prevalência da tontura em São Paulo foi estabelecida em 42%. Afeta as atividades diárias em 67% dos sintomáticos, mas apenas 46% deles procuram auxílio médico. .

The epidemiology of dizziness is essential in clinical practice. OBJECTIVE: To establish the prevalence of dizziness in the adult population of São Paulo, its clinical characteristics and level of discomfort. METHOD: A prospective cross-sectional study ran from April to October of 2012 by a field questionnaire, totaling 1,960 interviews. The predictor variables assessed were age, gender, type of dizziness and the dizziness disability index. The statistical tools used to assess the significance between variables were the chi-square test, Student's t-test and logistic regression. We used a 95% confidence interval for estimated values. RESULTS: The prevalence of dizziness in the city of São Paulo was established at 42%. We found two peak of complaints, 49% in the range of 46-55 years and 44% in the elderly. Vestibular-related dizziness was estimated to affect 8.3% of the population, mainly women (p < 0.001). The symptoms caused disability in 27% of symptomatic interviewees and it is more bothersome to females (p < 0.001), who more frequently seek medical care (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The prevalence of dizziness in São Paulo was found to be 42%. It affects daily activities in 67% of symptomatic patients, but only 46% of them seek medical help. .