Electronystagmography
(ENG)
The eyes are closely linked to the inner ear; these organs depend on each other
for good balance and clear vision. Head movement or other stimulation of the inner
ear sends signals to the muscles of the eyes via the nervous system; this is called
the vestibulo-ocular reflex, or VOR.
The VOR normally generates eye movements that maintain clear vision with head
movement. Electronystagmography is a battery
(group) of eye-movement tests that look for signs of vestibular dysfunction or
neurological problems by measuring nystagmus
(a kind of involuntary eye movement) and record other eye movements in order to
evaluate certain brain functions. ENG tests are probably the most common ones
administered to people with dizziness, vertigo, and/or balance disorders, although
the test battery and some testing methods vary widely.
During ENG, eye movements are recorded and analyzed via small electrodes placed
on the skin around the eyes. The electrodes attach to the skin with an adhesive,
much like a small bandage. Alternatively, eye movements may be recorded by infrared
video camera while the person being tested wears goggles instead of sticky-patch
electrodes.
While the eye movements are recorded, the person being tested will be asked a
series of simple questions that are meant to keep the mind busy and alert
during the tests.
One ENG test evaluates the movement of the eyes as they follow a moving target.
Another observes eye movements as the head is positioned in different directions.
During the caloric test (sometimes called
bi-thermal caloric or mono-thermal caloric), warm or cold water or air is circulated
in the ear canal. The temperature change stimulates the inner ear in order to
test the nystagmus response.
From VEDA publication F-6, Diagnostic Tests for Vestibular Problems.
For further information, see also VEDA publication E-8,
Common Misconceptions
about ENG (Electronystagmography).
BPPV
Meniere’s Disease
Endolymphatic Hydrops
Labyrinthitis/Vest Neuritis
Perilymph Fistula
Acoustic Neuroma
Ototoxicity
Vestibular Migraine
Mal de Debarquement
Pediatric Vest. Disorders
Aging & Dizziness
Cervicogenic Dizziness
Otosclerosis
Cholesteatoma
Enlarged Vest. Aqueduct
Vestibular Hyperacusis
Autoimmunity
Canal Dehiscence
Meniere’s Disease
Endolymphatic Hydrops
Labyrinthitis/Vest Neuritis
Perilymph Fistula
Acoustic Neuroma
Ototoxicity
Vestibular Migraine
Mal de Debarquement
Pediatric Vest. Disorders
Aging & Dizziness
Cervicogenic Dizziness
Otosclerosis
Cholesteatoma
Enlarged Vest. Aqueduct
Vestibular Hyperacusis
Autoimmunity
Canal Dehiscence
Vestibular Disorders Association
VEDA
Recognizing the challenges of
inner ear disorders
inner ear disorders




