Neurotological Examinations of Patients with Vertigo in Primary Care

Abstract

Vertigo and loss of balance are frequently encountered in primary care. Neurotology can contribute to the primary care of vertigo and loss of balance by organizing a battery of tests to establish diagnosis. The tests are classified into the following five: 1) neurotological tests, mostly for brainstem functions, 2) tests for visual fixation on a target, stationary or tracking; 3) examinations of nystagmus without visual fixation but with postitional and positioning procedures; 4) auditory examinations; and 5) caloric tests. The diagnostic significance and clinical evaluation of these tests are presented with comments. These tests and other clinical examinations should give conclusions in diagnosing vertigo and/or loss-of-balance in the following categories: 1) the existence, degree and nature, 2) the location, and 3) the cause of the lesion.