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Vestibular Lab Testing: Interpreting the Results in the Headache Patient with Dizziness

  • Headache (R. H. Singh, Section Editor)
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

To provide an overview of vestibular lab testing and to familiarize the reader with common results observed in headache patients with dizziness.

Recent Findings

The latest research indicates variable levels of both peripheral and central vestibular dysfunction in headache populations with dizziness. Mechanisms may include vestibulocerebellar loss of inhibition, central vestibular network misfiring, and peripheral pathology aggravating central hypersensitization.

Summary

Headache patients are commonly affected by dizziness stemming from various etiologies. Although history is still the gold standard in diagnosis, vestibular lab testing can identify the integrity of vestibular function. Research is emerging and future directions are encouraging.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA

    Tommy L. H. Chan

  2. Arizona School of Health Sciences, A.T. Still University, Mesa, AZ, USA

    Troy D. Hale

  3. Department of Otolaryngology--Head and Neck Surgery; Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, 2452 Watson Court Suite 1700, Palo Alto, CA, 94303, USA

    Kristen K. Steenerson

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Chan, T.L.H., Hale, T.D. & Steenerson, K.K. Vestibular Lab Testing: Interpreting the Results in the Headache Patient with Dizziness. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep 20, 16 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11910-020-01036-4

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