Computerized dynamic visual acuity test in the assessment of vestibular deficits

Abstract

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.