Diagnostic value of vestibular tests (video head impulse test and cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potentials) in idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing lossDiagnostic value of vestibular tests (vHIT and cVEMPs) in idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss

Idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSHL) can be associated with vestibular organ involvement, which may influence it prognosis. OBJECTIVE: Evaluate vestibular function in ISSNHL without acute vestibular syndrome (AVS) and to examine associations with baseline hearing loss. MATERIAL AND

Audiologists assessing patients with sudden unexplained hearing loss (ISSHL) should consider adding vHIT and cVEMP testing to their evaluation, as abnormal results may help localize inner-ear damage and provide prognostic information — pending confirmation in larger studies.

Identifying vestibular involvement in ISSHL through objective tests could improve diagnostic precision and help stratify patients by recovery outlook, refining clinical management of a poorly understood condition.

1. 01vHIT and cVEMPs were evaluated for diagnostic utility in idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSHL).
2. 02Both tests can detect vestibular (balance-system) dysfunction even when dizziness is not the chief complaint.
3. 03Abnormal vestibular test results may carry prognostic value, potentially predicting poorer hearing recovery.
4. 04Findings support a multimodal vestibular assessment approach in ISSHL workup.
5. 05Results are preliminary and require replication in larger, controlled cohorts.

PMID

42184166

DOI

10.1080/00016489.2026.2671348.

Journal

Acta Oto-Laryngologica

Publication type

research_article

Evidence level

4

Population

Patients diagnosed with idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSHL)

Intervention

Video head impulse test (vHIT) and cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (cVEMPs)