Head impulse test

Abstract

Introduction: In balance function evaluation, head impulse test is a fast, simple and easy to interpret test, which explores the vestibulo-ocular reflex. Having gained in the last decade growing importance as a complement to traditional caloric test, this test hasn’t been explored in our context yet. Aim: To assess sensitivity and specificity of this test in our context, along with contributing to the spread of an increasingly important tool in otoneurology. Material and method: A prospective, blinded, diagnostic test assessment. In a sample of patients consulting for acute vertigo, head impulse test was performed at the time of initial consultation, and at the time of VIII nerve functional testing. Results: We evaluated 52 patients, 44% with vestibular dysfunction as shown in caloric test results as gold standard. Sensitivity of the head impulse test was 47.6%, its specificity 83.9%, with positive and negative predictive value of 66.7% and 70.3% respectively. Agreement between two independent examiners was high (Kappa = 0.84). Discussion: Despite its low sensitivity, impulse test showed a high specificity and a reasonable positive predictive value. It was also highly reproductible, and generates no nausea or other symptoms in the patient. We consider this test as a complement to vestibular function evaluation, with clinical applicationssupportingearly onset of therapy. We believe this test to withhold significant potential in various otoneurological developing applications.