Utility and Challenges of Imaging in Peripheral Vestibular Disorder Diagnosis: A Review

Objective: This review is aimed at evaluating the role of imaging evaluation in the diagnosis of peripheral vestibular disorders. Methods: The study is a literature review conducted on PubMed and the Cochrane Library. Results: Imaging is not usually recommended in initial consultations for vestibular disorders because only 5-10% of MRI scans reveal findings directly related to the disease. The study is a review of the literature that highlights the utility and limitations of imaging such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). It follows the diagnostic approach from history and physical examination to laboratory tests and imaging. Some conditions like vestibular neuritis and BPPV have limited imaging utility due to the fine details required. Conversely, high-resolution CT and MRI are important for diagnosing Meniere's disease, acoustic neuroma, and superior canal dehiscence. Conclusion: The imaging role varies a lot among specific conditions. Advances in imaging technology, particularly high-resolution MRI, promise enhanced diagnostic capabilities.

Vestibular disorders; vertigo; dizziness; computed tomography; magnetic resonance imaging; Meniere's disease; vestibular neuritis; acoustic neuroma; superior canal dehiscence; benign paroxysmal positional vertigo