Pulsatile tinnitus (PT) is a rhythmic sound synchronized with the patient's heartbeat that represents a complex diagnostic challenge with a broad spectrum of vascular and non-vascular etiologies. Persistent symptoms can severely impact mental health, yet a specific causative abnormality can be identified via targeted radiological imaging in more than 75% of cases....
✦ The floor
Discussion
Signed responses from readers of the wire.
This evidence-based consensus provides actionable imaging selection guidance for pulsatile tinnitus; audiologists and otolaryngologists who participate in the diagnostic pathway should familiarise themselves with the recommended imaging algorithms.
Pulsatile tinnitus has a wide differential diagnosis requiring targeted imaging; a consensus framework reduces diagnostic delays and unnecessary scans, directly improving patient outcomes.
- 01Expert consensus published in European Journal of Radiology (2026) on imaging for pulsatile tinnitus.
- 02Addresses both vascular and non-vascular causes requiring different imaging modalities.
- 03Evidence-based approach distinguishes this from purely opinion-led guidance.
- 04Provides a structured decision framework for imaging selection.
- 05Directly relevant to multidisciplinary teams managing tinnitus patients.
An evidence-based imaging selection framework can streamline the diagnostic workup for pulsatile tinnitus.
guidelinesupported- PMID
- 42880154
- DOI
- 10.1016/j.ejrad.2026.113299.
- Journal
- European Journal of Radiology
- Publication type
- review
- Evidence level
- 5
- Population
- Patients presenting with pulsatile tinnitus
- Intervention
- Evidence-based imaging selection algorithms (e.g., MRI, CT angiography) for pulsatile tinnitus workup
Primary outcomes
Recommended imaging modality per pulsatile tinnitus subtype; Diagnostic accuracy and efficiency of imaging pathways