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....
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.
- 01Motorist's disorientation syndrome (MDS) was first described in 1985 and remains poorly recognised.
- 02Estimated prevalence is 1–5% of patients presenting to tertiary neurotology clinics.
- 03Characterised by dizziness or spatial disorientation specifically triggered by driving.
- 04Narrative review format — no new primary data collected.
- 05Underdiagnosis may have road-safety implications for affected patients.
Motorist's disorientation syndrome affects 1–5% of patients presenting to tertiary neurotology clinics.
studypartially supportedMotorist's disorientation syndrome is an underdiagnosed vestibular condition.
opinionpartially supported- 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
Primary outcomes
Clinical characterisation of motorist's disorientation syndrome; Prevalence estimates in neurotology clinic populations; Diagnostic and management considerations