Diagnostic Challenges panel discussion general

This proposal presents a series of real-life clinical cases that illustrate common diagnostic errors and challenges encountered in neurotology. Despite major advances in vestibular testing and imaging, clinicians still face significant difficulties in accurately differentiating between peripheral and central causes of vertigo, as well as functional and psychogenic components. The cases selected reflect typical pitfalls seen in everyday clinical practice, such as misdiagnosis of vestibular migraine as Menière’s disease, misinterpretation of pseudospontaneous nystagmus in cupulolithiasis-type BPPV, and diagnostic complexity in multicanal BPPV with overlapping otolithic debris. Additionally, we explore a case of delayed compensation in vestibular neuritis despite early and correct treatment, suggesting the possibility of hidden pathophysiological factors.

Through this structured case-based approach, we aim to emphasize the importance of systematic clinical reasoning, detailed positional testing, and reassessment in patients who do not follow the expected recovery pattern. These cases serve not only as learning tools, but also as a starting point for discussing broader diagnostic strategies in neurotology, encouraging clinicians to adopt a flexible and integrative perspective

Novel Approaches general panel discussion

We propose a hypothesis-generating observational study that explores the relationship between obsessive-compulsive (OC) personality traits and the severity of vertigo-related anxiety in patients with common peripheral vestibular disorders. Despite similar vestibular test results, some patients report disabling dizziness, while others cope more easily — suggesting that psychological traits may act as symptom amplifiers. This proposed study will include patients diagnosed with BPPV, vestibular neuritis, or Menière’s disease. Each participant will complete validated instruments including the Vertigo Handicap Inventory (VHI), the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) scale, and the Obsessive-Compulsive Inventory-Revised (OCI-R). We will analyze the correlation between obsessive-compulsive traits and reported anxiety intensity, adjusting for diagnosis and vestibular dysfunction severity. We believe that identifying psychological vulnerability in vestibular patients can lead to earlier, individualized management strategies — including integration of cognitive-behavioral therapy in selected cases.