Diagnostic capabilities of the vestibular evoked myogenic potential test in children with vestibular dysfunction

Abstract

<p class="abstract"><strong>Background:</strong> Vestibular evoked myogenic potential (VEMP) testing is used in the diagnosis of vestibular disorders. It is an objective method for testing the the otolith organs of the vestibular system. VEMP test is an additional method for diagnosing vestibular neuritis (VN). The combination of cervical VEMP (cVEMP) and ocular VEMP (oVEMP) testing has an advantage in long-term monitoring of patients with VN. The VEMP test is well-studied for adults but studies involving children are insufficient. The aim of this study was to analysis and evaluation of the results from VEMP testing of children diagnosed with vestibular dysfunction. Analysis and evaluation of the results from VEMP testing of children diagnosed with vestibular dysfunction.</p><p class="abstract"><strong>Methods:</strong> History, examination of ENT organs, tone threshold audiometry, tympanometry, otoneurological examination, VEMP test.  </p><p class="abstract"><strong>Results:</strong> Children with vestibular dysfunction who were examined showed changes predominantly in the oVEMP test. The upper branch of the vestibular nerve is affected.   </p><p class="abstract"><strong>Conclusions:</strong> The VEMP test is an additional method for diagnosing patients with vestibular dysfunction. It is safe when used for children.</p>