Electronystagmography (ENG) or videonystagmography (VNG) assessments evaluate the vestibular system, responsible for balance and spatial orientation. Deviations from expected eye movements during caloric irrigation, where the ear canal is stimulated with warm and cool air or water, can suggest dysfunction within the inner ear or the neural pathways connecting it to the brain. For instance, a weak or absent response in one ear compared to the other might indicate a unilateral vestibular weakness.
Identifying such discrepancies is crucial for diagnosing various conditions, including vestibular neuritis, labyrinthitis, Mnire’s disease, and acoustic neuromas. Early and accurate detection allows for timely interventions, such as vestibular rehabilitation therapy or medical management, to alleviate symptoms like vertigo, dizziness, and imbalance. Caloric testing has been a cornerstone of vestibular assessment for decades, providing valuable insights into the function of this essential sensory system.
