Referrals to a specialised dizziness clinic often result in revised diagnoses and new therapeutic advice

Abstract

Background: Patients with dizziness are frequently referred to specialised centres for a second opinion. The incremental diagnostic and therapeutic yield of this approach has rarely been studied.

Aim of the study: How often is a new diagnosis or treatment advice given to patients with dizziness who are referred for a second opinion to a tertiary multi-disciplinary expertise centre?

Methods: In a prospective observational study, the following data were collected: reason for referral, diagnosis and treatment made by ENT surgeon and a neurologist in consensus.

Results: In the complete group of patients (n = 327), a new (or amended) diagnosis was made in 54% and 62% of the patients received a new treatment advice.

Conclusion: Referral of selected dizzy patients to a multidisciplinary centre provides a revised diagnosis or treatment recommendation for a majority of patients.