Nystagmus at the Onset of Vertiginous Attack in Ménière's Disease.

OBJECTIVE

To clarify the direction and characteristics of nystagmus at the onset of a vertiginous attack in Ménière's disease.

PATIENTS: Two patients with Ménière's disease, whose nystagmus at the onset of a vertiginous attack was recorded using electronystagmography.

INTERVENTIONS: Diagnostic.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Electronystagmographic recordings of nystagmus.

RESULTS

In both patients, nystagmus was directed toward the affected side over the entire course of the vertiginous attack. One patient experienced a severe sensation of vertigo and exhibited strong nystagmus from the onset of the attack. The other patient reported a mild sensation of vertigo, which was accompanied by intermittent nystagmus.

CONCLUSIONS

Vertiginous attacks in Ménière's disease are accompanied by irritative nystagmus. The intensity and characteristics (e.g., continuous or intermittent expression) of the nystagmus may be associated with pathophysiological severity.