Research in Vestibular Science

Most read articles are from the articles published during the past two years (2023~).

Case Report

A case of vertebrobasilar dolichoectasia manifesting as sudden sensorineural hearing loss with vertigo: Young Jae Lee, Wonyong Baek, Gi-Sung Nam; Res Vestib Sci. 2024;23(1):32-36. Published online March 15, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.21790/rvs.2024.004

2,919 View
42 Download

Abstract PDF: Vertebrobasilar dolichoectasia (VBD) is a rare vascular condition characterized by the elongation, widening, and tortuosity of the vertebrobasilar artery. It can lead to various symptoms due to compression of cranial nerves and brainstem structures. We report a rare case of VBD presenting as sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) with vertigo and spontaneous downbeat nystagmus in a 65-year-old woman with a history of hypertension. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a tortuous and dilated right vertebrobasilar artery compressing the brainstem and left 8th cranial nerve root entry zone, without signs of acute cerebellar stroke. The compression of the anterior inferior cerebellar artery and cervicomedullary junction was also noted, suggesting a vascular cause for her symptoms. Following high-dose steroid treatment, the patient showed significant hearing improvement. This case underscores the importance of considering VBD in patients with unexplained SSNHL and vertigo, highlighting the role of detailed vascular imaging in the diagnosis and management of such cases.

Review Article

Smartphones versus goggles for video-oculography: current status and future direction: Pouya Barahim Bastani, Shervin Badihian, Vidith Phillips, Hector Rieiro, Jorge Otero-Millan, Nathan Farrell, Max Parker, David Newman-Toker, Ali Saber Tehrani; Res Vestib Sci. 2024;23(3):63-70. Published online September 15, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.21790/rvs.2024.009

1,246 View
55 Download

Abstract PDF: Assessment of eye movements is the cornerstone of diagnosing vestibular disorders and differentiating central from peripheral causes of dizziness. Nonetheless, accurate assessment of eye movements is challenging, especially in the emergency department and primary care settings. To overcome this challenge, clinicians objectively measure eye movements using devices like video-oculography (VOG) goggles, which provide a video recording of the eye and quantified eye position traces. However, despite the value of VOG goggles in studying eye movements, barriers such as high prices and the need for dedicated operators have limited their use to subspecialty clinics. Recent advancements in the hardware and software of smartphones have positioned them as potential alternatives to VOG goggles that can reliably record and quantify eye movements. Although currently not as accurate as VOG goggles, smartphones can provide a cheap, widely available tool that can be used in various medical settings and even at home by patients. We review the current state and future directions of the devices that can be used for recording and quantifying eye movements.

Case Reports

Fluctuating high-frequency hearing loss with vertigo: is it Menière’s disease? A case report: Minho Jang, Dong-Han Lee, Jiyeon Lee, Chang-Hee Kim; Res Vestib Sci. 2024;23(3):106-110. Published online September 15, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.21790/rvs.2024.011

1,078 View
41 Download

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material: This study describes an unusual case of fluctuating unilateral high-frequency hearing loss with vertigo resembling Menière’s disease. The current diagnostic criteria for definite Menière’s disease include audiometrically documented low- to medium-frequency sensorineural hearing loss on at least one occasion before, during, or after an episode of vertigo. This case presented a diagnostic dilemma. Brain MRI was nonspecific, and a bithermal caloric test showed unilateral weakness of 44% on the affected side. The results of electrocochleography and cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potential tests were within the normal ranges. Persistent geotropic or ageotropic positional nystagmus was observed during each vertigo attack; the mechanism underlying this characteristic nystagmus needs further investigation.

A Rare Case of Isolated Infarcts of the Pons with Sudden Vertigo: Clinical Features and Imaging Findings: Dong Hwan Kwon, Eun kyung Jeon, Young Joon Seo; Res Vestib Sci. 2023;22(3):89-94. Published online September 15, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.21790/rvs.2023.22.3.89

2,550 View
50 Download

Abstract PDF: Isolated infarcts of the pons (IIP) are a rare subtype of ischemic stroke, accounting for less than 1% of all strokes. It refers to a specific type of ischemic stroke that occurs within the pons region of the brain. IIP can be associated with vertebrobasilar insufficiency in certain cases. This case report describes a 64-year-old female patient who presented with acute vertigo and spontaneous nystagmus to the lesion side, ultimately diagnosed with IIP in the posterior right side of pons. Tegmental pontine infarcts typically manifest as oblique small (lacunar) infarctions that are localized in the mediolateral tegmental area of the middle to upper pons. The patient’s symptoms resolved spontaneously, but a 2-mm infarct was confirmed by brain diffusion magnetic resonance imaging. This case highlights the distinctive symptoms associated with IIP and emphasizes the importance of careful neurological examination and advanced neuroimaging techniques for accurate diagnosis.

Review

Light Cupula: Recent Updates: Dong-Han Lee, Chang-Hee Kim; Res Vestib Sci. 2023;22(2):23-33. Published online June 15, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.21790/rvs.2023.22.2.23

3,036 View
173 Download

Abstract PDF: Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is the most common cause of positional vertigo and nystagmus. Direction-changing positional nystagmus (DCPN), which refers to the change in the direction of nystagmus with different head positions, is a well-known characteristic of horizontal semicircular canal BPPV. The supine head roll test is commonly used to diagnose horizontal canal BPPV. However, persistent geotropic DCPN observed during this test cannot be explained by conventional mechanisms of canalolithiasis or cupulolithiasis. The concept of a “light cupula” has been proposed to account for this unique nystagmus. In this review, we summarize the historical background, clinical features and diagnostic methods, presumed mechanisms, and treatment approaches of the light cupula phenomenon based on the available literatures up to date.

Original Articles

Clinical Outcomes of Endolymphatic Sac Decompression Surgery in Menière’s Disease: Hee Won Seo, Young Sang Cho, Won-Ho Chung; Res Vestib Sci. 2023;22(4):97-105. Published online December 15, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.21790/rvs.2023.22.4.97

2,267 View
74 Download

Abstract PDF: Objectives
Endolymphatic sac decompression surgery (ESDS) is one of the surgical methods for intractable Menière’s disease (MD), and it is known as a relatively safe treatment that does not cause hearing loss. However, the effectiveness and the degree of vertigo control rate of ESDS are still controversial. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the clinical outcomes of ESDS in intractable MD.
Methods
We retrospectively reviewed 33 patients who underwent ESDS for intractable MD from January 2002 to March 2022. Clinical characteristics of patients, pure tone threshold, medical treatment method, and number of vertigo attacks before and after surgery were assessed. The improvement of hearing and vertigo was evaluated according to the 1995 American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery criteria.
Results
Of the 33 patients, the average follow-up period was 21.2 months, with immediate follow-up within 2 months (28 patients), short term between 2 and 6 months (27 patients), and long term at 12 months or later (29 patients). In the immediate hearing threshold, both air conduction and bone conduction showed slight deterioration, but there was no significant change in the long-term hearing threshold. At long-term follow-up, 12 patients (41.4%) were able to live without medication, and 18 patients (62.1%) showed improvement in their vertigo symptoms. In addition, patients who showed improvement in hearing also showed improvement in vertigo at the same time.
Conclusions
ESDS in intractable MD is a relatively safe and effective treatment method for reducing vertigo attack without worsening hearing threshold.

Effect of early high-dose steroid treatment in patients with acute vestibular neuritis: a retrospective case-control study: Jung-Yup Lee, Hyun-Seok Kang, Sang-Hyun Kim, Min-Beom Kim; Res Vestib Sci. 2024;23(2):53-60. Published online June 14, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.21790/rvs.2024.007

1,055 View
32 Download

Abstract PDF: Objectives
This study is performed to evaluate the effect of early steroid treatment within 24 hours of onset in acute vestibular neuritis (AVN).
Methods
We performed a retrospective case-control study with 46 patients with AVN. Video head impulse test paradigm (HIMP) and suppression HIMP were performed, and dizziness handicap index (DHI) was determined at initial; all tests were repeated at 1 month. Patients were divided into two groups depending on whether they were treated with steroids (group S, n=21) or not (group n-S, n=25).
Results
There was no significant difference in age, sex, and side between the two groups. In HIMP, group S showed a significantly lower occurrence of overt corrective saccade (CS) (p=0.034) and lower peak velocity of overt CS (p=0.020) than group n-S at 1 month. In addition, the DHI score at 1 month was significantly lower in group S than in group n-S (p=0.040). In correlation analysis between subjective symptom and objective parameters, the DHI score showed a significant correlation with the occurrence of overt CS (p=0.028) and PR score (p=0.006) at 1 month.
Conclusions
Early steroid treatment in AVN would be helpful for relieving symptoms and the improvement of vestibular ocular reflex function in the recovery phase.

Review Article

Virtual reality simulators for temporal bone dissection: overcoming limitations of previous models: Temuulen Batsaikhan, Young Joon Seo; Res Vestib Sci. 2024;23(1):1-10. Published online March 15, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.21790/rvs.2024.002

2,477 View
53 Download

Abstract PDF: Temporal bone dissection is a critical skill for otolaryngology trainees: however, it is challenging to master due to the complex anatomy and limited exposure to cadaveric specimens. The aim of this review was to develop and evaluate a novel virtual reality (VR) simulator for temporal bone dissection, addressing the limitations of previous simulators reported in the literature. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases from inception to September 2022. The search was limited to studies that evaluated the effectiveness of VR simulators for temporal bone dissection. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. The results showed that VR simulators can significantly improve temporal bone dissection skills, including anatomical knowledge, instrument handling, and surgical performance. Compared to traditional training methods, VR simulation was associated with faster learning curves, better retention of skills, and greater confidence among trainees. However, some limitations of current VR models were identified, including the lack of haptic feedback, limited realism, and short duration of practice. VR simulators are a valuable adjunct to traditional methods for temporal bone dissection training. The recently developed VR simulator addressed the limitations of previous simulators and demonstrated its potential to enhance the training of clinicians in temporal bone dissection. Future directions for research include further validation of the simulator and exploration of its potential for use in clinical settings.

Original Article

Saccadic oscillations as a possible indicator of dizziness due to choline esterase inhibitors: an observational study with video-oculography: Ileok Jung, Moon-Ho Park, Ji-Soo Kim; Res Vestib Sci. 2024;23(3):101-105. Published online September 15, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.21790/rvs.2024.015

620 View
17 Download

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material: Introduction: Cholinesterase inhibitors (ChEIs) are widely used to treat mild to moderate Alzheimer disease and vascular dementia. Even though dizziness due to medication of ChEIs has been ascribed to adverse effects on the cardiovascular or central nervous system, the mechanisms remain unclear and objective indicators are not available.
Methods
We recorded the eye movements using video-oculography in three patients who developed dizziness and unsteadiness after initiation or increment of ChEI, donepezil (Aricept).
Results
The patients showed frequent saccadic oscillations that improved after discontinuation of ChEI.
Conclusions
Frequent saccadic oscillations may be an indicator of dizziness in patients taking ChEIs.

Review Article

Review on the impact of spaceflight stressors on the vestibular system: beyond microgravity to space radiation: Hui Ho Vanessa Chang, Kyu-Sung Kim; Res Vestib Sci. 2024;23(3):71-78. Published online September 15, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.21790/rvs.2024.013

600 View
36 Download

Abstract PDF: Understanding the effects of microgravity on the vestibular system has been a primary focus of space research, driven by the need to counteract the often-debilitating impacts of altered gravity environments and maintain operational performance in space. Research using both space-based and ground-based models has identified structural and functional changes in the vestibular system, highlighting its significant capacity for sensorimotor adaptation. As human space exploration progresses towards missions beyond low Earth orbit for extended periods, additional stressors, such as space radiation, may impact the vestibular system. Early studies on space radiation using animal models and insights from radiotherapy have shown that the vestibular system is more vulnerable to radiation than previously understood. This paper provides a brief review of (1) dysfunctions in spatial orientation, gaze stabilization, posture, and locomotion observed in astronauts; (2) ground-based experiments on animals that likely explain these vestibular and sensorimotor dysfunctions; and (3) studies examining the effects of radiation on the vestibular system and its implications for vestibular function in space.

Case Report

Visual Fixation-Induced Hemi-Seesaw Nystagmus: Hyun Sung Kim, Eun Hye Oh, Jae-Hwan Choi; Res Vestib Sci. 2023;22(1):19-22. Published online March 13, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.21790/rvs.2023.22.1.19

3,517 View
42 Download
1 Crossref

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material

Seesaw nystagmus (SSN) is characterized by conjugate torsional nystagmus with opposite vertical components in the two eyes. The waveform may be pendular or jerk (hemi-seesaw nystagmus, HSSN), in which the slow phase corresponds to one half-cycle and the quick phase to the other. Pendular SSN and HSSN have distinct clinical presentations and underlying causes. The pathophysiology of pendular SSN may be instability of visuovestibular interactions, while the underlying mechanism for HSSN may be related to the ocular tilt reaction or an imbalance in vestibular pathways. We report a patient with HSSN due to unilateral mesodiencephalic infarction that becomes apparent during visual fixation only.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Midbrain lesion-induced disconjugate gaze: a unifying circuit mechanism of ocular alignment?
Maximilian U. Friedrich, Laurin Schappe, Sashank Prasad, Helen Friedrich, Michael D. Fox, Andreas Zwergal, David S. Zee, Klaus Faßbender, Klaus-Ulrich Dillmann
Journal of Neurology.2024;[Epub] CrossRef

Review Articles

Digital therapeutics and telemedicine for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo and other vestibular disorders: a review: Eun-Hyeok Choi, Hyo-Jung Kim, Ji-Soo Kim; Res Vestib Sci. 2024;23(4):115-123. Published online December 15, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.21790/rvs.2024.018

324 View
12 Download

Abstract PDF: In the recent wave of digital transformation, digital therapeutics and telemedicine are changing the concepts in the management of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo and other vestibular disorders. These technologies provide accessible and cost-effective solutions amid the ongoing digital revolution in healthcare. This review article covers the recently advanced digital therapeutics for vestibular disorders that include questionnaire- or artificial intelligence-based diagnostic algorithms, telemedicine and self-application of canalith repositioning therapy, wearable devices for monitoring of eye movements during the attacks of dizziness/vertigo, and metaverse for vestibular rehabilitation. Integration of these digital technologies would improve diagnostic accuracy and treatment efficacy, reduce the economic burden associated with vestibular disorders, and promise a revolutionary shift in patient care towards personalized medicine.

Treatment of hemodynamic orthostatic dizziness/vertigo: Hyun Ah Kim; Res Vestib Sci. 2024;23(3):79-88. Published online September 15, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.21790/rvs.2024.017

541 View
36 Download

Abstract PDF: Orthostatic dizziness occurs when a person feels dizzy or lightheaded upon standing up. Hemodynamic orthostatic dizziness can result from autonomic dysfunction, such as orthostatic hypotension or postural tachycardia syndrome. The International Classification of Vestibular Disorders has established diagnostic criteria for hemodynamic orthostatic dizziness/vertigo. These criteria help clinicians understand the terminology associated with orthostatic dizziness/vertigo and differentiate it from dizziness caused by global brain hypoperfusion and other etiologies. Effective treatment involves interpreting the results of autonomic function tests, which can lead to improvements in orthostatic dizziness and help prevent falls related to this condition. This paper discusses general management strategies and specific treatments for orthostatic hypotension and postural tachycardia syndrome, highlighting the importance of tailored care based on the most recent clinical insights.

Case Reports

Horizontal nystagmus with velocity-increasing waveforms in delayed post-hypoxic leukoencephalopathy: a case report: Eugene Jung, Suk-Min Lee, Seo-Young Choi, Kwang-Dong Choi; Res Vestib Sci. 2024;23(3):111-113. Published online September 15, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.21790/rvs.2024.016

951 View
32 Download

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material: Abnormal eye movements in unconscious patients serve as crucial diagnostic instruments, offering insights into the function of the central nervous system. Understanding these movements can aid in diagnosing the cause of unconsciousness, localizing brain lesions, and predicting outcomes. We report a patient who presented with spontaneous horizontal nystagmus unaffected by light in delayed post-hypoxic encephalopathy. Video-oculography showed exponentially increasing slow phases, with an amplitude ranging from 3° to 9° and a frequency of 0.5 Hz. Based on the results of oculography and neuroimaging, persistent horizontal nystagmus in our patient may be ascribed to an unstable neural integrator, possibly caused by disrupted cerebellar feedback mechanisms for horizontal gaze holding.

A case of cerebellopontine angle meningioma presenting as neurovascular compression syndrome of the 8th cranial nerve: Jeongin Jang, Sung Kwang Hong, Joonho Song, Hyung-Jong Kim, Hyo-Jeong Lee; Res Vestib Sci. 2024;23(1):28-31. Published online March 15, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.21790/rvs.2023.141

1,284 View
17 Download

Abstract PDF: A 54-year-old female patient presented with paroxysmal tinnitus and vertigo for 2 years, which have repeatedly occurred while rotating her neck, and lasted about 10 seconds. An anticonvulsant medication was prescribed with a diagnosis of microvascular compression syndrome on the 8th cranial nerve and audiovestibular evaluation and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan were appointed a week later. In her next visit, she reported the disappearance of paroxysmal audiovestibular symptoms after medication. In the left ear, canal paresis and abnormal auditory brainstem response were observed. In MRI, a large meningioma in the cerebellopontine angle in the vicinity of the internal auditory canal orifice was detected, that was surgically resected by a neurosurgeon. After surgical removal of the tumor, she reported continuous dizziness due to vestibular nerve injury, but the paroxysmal attack of tinnitus and vertigo disappeared without anticonvulsant medication. This case suggests that an imaging study is mandatory when diagnosing microvascular compression syndrome on the 8th cranial nerve.

First
Prev
Page of 4
Next
Last