Abstract
Equilibrium examinations were performed in 133 patients over 60 years of age who complained of vertigo and/or dizziness.
1. The incidence of vertigo or dizziness due to central nervous system lesions (central disorders) increased with age, while that of peripheral vestibular lesions (peripheral disorders) fell with age.
2. Elderly patients with peripheral disorders had a incidence of abnormal caloric response (36.6%) compared with those with central disorders.
3. The eye tracking test of patients with central disorders indicated that smooth pursuit eye movement tended to be more difficult.
4. Nystagmus tests showed abnormal nystagmus in those with cerebellar and brain stem lesions.
