Motorist's Disorientation Syndrome-A Narrative Review

Motorist's disorientation syndrome (MDS) is seen in 1 to 5% of patients in a tertiary neurotology clinic and remains an underdiagnosed pathology. It was first described in 1985 by Page & Gresty, using the term "visual vertigo". Patients described sensations of veering or turning over while driving an automobile when visual input was restricted....

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Audiologists and neurotologists working with dizzy patients should be aware that driving-specific vestibular symptoms may represent MDS — a distinct, underdiagnosed condition — and should include directed history-taking about symptoms occurring while driving.

Missed diagnosis of MDS carries real safety consequences for patients who drive, making awareness of this condition clinically relevant for any practitioner managing vestibular disorders.

1. 01Motorist's disorientation syndrome (MDS) was first described in 1985 and remains poorly recognised.
2. 02Estimated prevalence is 1–5% of patients presenting to tertiary neurotology clinics.
3. 03Characterised by dizziness or spatial disorientation specifically triggered by driving.
4. 04Narrative review format — no new primary data collected.
5. 05Underdiagnosis may have road-safety implications for affected patients.

PMID

42346758

DOI

10.3390/jfmk11020229.

Journal

Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology

Publication type

review

Evidence level

5

Population

Patients with vestibular disorders, specifically those presenting with driving-induced disorientation

Intervention

Narrative review of motorist's disorientation syndrome literature