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Semin Neurol 2013; 33(03): 195-203
DOI: 10.1055/s-0033-1354597
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Bilateral Vestibular Loss

Timothy C. Hain
1   Departments of Neurology, Otolaryngology, Physical therapy and Human Movement Science, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
,
Marcello Cherchi
2   Department of Neurology, Northwestern University School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
,
Dario A. Yacovino
3   Section of Neuro-Otology, Neurology Research Institute “Dr, Raúl Carrea” (FLENI), Buenos Aires, Argentina
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
21 September 2013 (online)

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Abstract

Bilateral vestibular loss is a rare cause of visual disturbance (oscillopsia) and imbalance. When severe, the most common cause is iatrogenic-gentamicin ototoxicity. Bilateral loss is easily diagnosed at the bedside with the dynamic illegible E test. If this test is omitted, it can easily be misdiagnosed as a cerebellar syndrome. Treatment is largely supportive. Care should be taken to avoid medications that suppress vestibular function, and to encourage activity.

Keywords

vestibulopathy - ototoxicity - ataxia - oscillopsia
 

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