Magnetic resonance imaging results in patients with central electronystagmography findings

The objective of this study was to determine the findings on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in patients identified as having central vestibular abnormalities on electronystagmography (ENG) testing, to discuss the issue of ‘gold standard’ in the investigation of central oculo‐vestibular system diseases and to present a model for understanding this area. A retrospective review of the case notes of patients (n = 23) found to have central ENG findings at vestibular assessment and for whom MRI scanning data was available was undertaken. Each patient underwent a full ENG evaluation, including gaze, ocular‐motor and caloric testing, and MRI. Only seven of the patients with central ENG findings had abnormal MRI scans. Thus, the incidence of the identification of structural abnormality on MRI in patients with central ENG findings is low. These investigations are complementary in the investigation of balance disorder patients.