The influence of otolith dysfunction on the clinical presentation of people with a peripheral vestibular disorder

Background and Purpose Traditional vestibular function testing has measured horizontal semicircular canal function only. Otolith function tests have recently been developed, but their clinical significance has not been determined. The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of otolith dysfunction on the clinical presentation of individuals with a peripheral vestibular disorder. Subjects and Methods Twenty-one subjects with loss of horizontal semicircular canal function only and 37 subjects with combined loss of horizontal semicircular canal and otolith organ function were recruited. All subjects received a comprehensive clinical assessment, including self-report questionnaires and measures of balance performance. Results No significant differences were identified between subjects with or without otolith dysfunction with respect to symptom severity, self-perceived handicap, functional limitations, or balance performance. Discussion and Conclusion Otolith dysfunction does not significantly influence the clinical presentation of individuals with a peripheral vestibular disorder. Other factors, including symptom severity, may be more influential.