Vertigo is a growing symptom, not only in the elderly population, but also in younger individuals with increased incidence of lifestyle related illnesses in the modern era. In routine practice, investigations such as an MRI, blood counts, thyroid, liver & renal function tests, lipid profile, tests for nutritional deficiencies etc. are being performed by most clinicians. Although, these certainly rule out major neurological and systemic illnesses, but aren't in any way, specific tests for vertigo.
Vestibular Function Tests(VFTs) or Vestibulometry, is the true diagnostic entity, to assess the function of the vestibular system and it's pathways, which is responsible for maintaining the balance of the human body. With the technological advancements, VFTs have become more and more objective and detailed. Here, enlisted are some of the most important tools in Vestibulometry.
VIDEO-OCULOGRAPHY(VOG) - A videographed version of the age old elwvctronystagmography(ENG) comparable to the ECG of the heart or the true of the brain.
DYNAMIC VISUAL ACUITY(DVA) & VIDEO HEAD IMPULSE TEST(VHIT) - advanced tests for assessing the functionality of the Vestibulo-ocular Reflex(VOR) pathway and localise the dysfunction of individual semicircular canals.
VEMPs, Cranio-corpography(CCG), Posturography etc are some other tests for assessing the otolithic, vestibulospinal and other pathways of the vestibular system.
Vestibular Function Tests, not only localise the site of vestibular dysfunction, but also help in planning targeted rehabilitative strategies to achieve compensation of the vestibular function and help regain the patient's balance.