Computerized dynamic visual acuity test in the assessment of vestibular deficits
Herdman, S.J.; Tusa, R.J.; Blatt, P.; Suzuki, A.; Venuto, P.J.; Roberts, D.
American Journal of Otology 19(6): 790-796
1998
ISSN/ISBN: 0192-9763 PMID: 9831156 Document Number: 495366
Objective: The study was designed to measure dynamic visual acuity (DVA) during head movement as an assessment of the functional impact of vestibular deficits. Study Design: The study design was a prospective, clinical study. Setting: The study was performed in a tertiary, ambulatory referral center. Patients: Forty-two normal subjects, 29 patients with unilateral vestibular loss, and 26 patients with bilateral vestibular hypofunction who were 19-87 years of age were examined. Intervention: Diagnostic intervention was performed. Main Outcome Measure: Main outcome measures included the reliability, sensitivity, and specificity of a computerized test that measures visual acuity during head movement in normal subjects and in patients with vestibular deficits, Results: The computerized DVA test was reliable in both normal subjects (intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) r = 0.87) and in patients with vestibular deficits (ICC r = 0.83). The sensitivity of the DVA test was 94.5% and the specificity was 95.2%. The positive predictive value (individuals who test positive on the DVA test who will have a vestibular deficit) was 96.3%. The negative predictive value (individuals who test negative on the DVA test who will not have a vestibular deficit) was 93%. Conclusions: The computerized DVA test is reliable and is able to distinguish among normal subjects and patients with vestibular deficits.