Decoding the bilateral vestibulopathy spectrum: etiology-based phenotypes, clinical profiles and pathways to implant candidacy.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Bilateral vestibulopathy (BVP) is a chronic, disabling disorder characterized by bilateral loss of vestibular function, leading to imbalance, oscillopsia, and falls. Despite established diagnostic criteria, clinical expression and rehabilitation potential vary widely across etiologies. Understanding these functional signatures is crucial for tailoring future neurostimulation strategies. The main objective of this study is to decode the etiological and functional heterogeneity of BVP and define clinical-functional profiles guiding vestibular or cochleo-vestibular implant candidacy.

Methods

A multicenter retrospective study included 119 adults fulfilling Bárány Society criteria for definite BVP (>1 year). Comprehensive audiovestibular testing comprised pure-tone a

SUBMITTER: Lorente-Piera J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12855053 | biostudies-literature | 2026

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature