Bedside vestibular examination

A careful and thorough neuro-otologic examination is an important part of the evaluation of patients with dizziness. An understanding of the underlying anatomy and physiology guides the examination and assists in the interpretation of results. In some cases, the specific cause of dizziness may be identified (e.g., BPPV). In other cases, the examination may serve to localize the problem to the peripheral vestibular system or to the central nervous system, such as the brainstem or cerebellum. This information can be used to direct further laboratory testing.