Abstract
Oculomotor evaluation as part of videonystagmography is an integral tool in the assessment
of vestibular function providing a global assessment of the neurological pathways
associated with oculomotor function. The value of an oculomotor evaluation for pediatric
evaluation is well established; however, many questions can also arise with the application
to the pediatric population. Oculomotor function is age dependent which can have a
significant effect on the test results obtain in children. The underlying neural substrates
and age effects are discussed across the literature with specific results from recent
research using clinical oculomotor equipment and protocols. The evidence suggests
there are several key differences in the pediatric population compared with adults.
These include longer saccade latencies, reduced smooth pursuit gain, increased optokinetic
asymmetry, increased variability in all responses, and increased artifact in saccade
and smooth pursuit testing.
Keywords
Children - dizziness - videonystagmography - oculomotor