Aminoglycoside-induced balance deficits: a review of vestibulotoxicity

Abstract

This article aims to inform clinicians about the current knowledge on aminoglycoside-induced vestibulotoxicity through a review of the literature. The effects of vestibulotoxicity are irreversible and may be profoundly disabling. It would appear that the sooner vestibular rehabilitation therapy is instituted, the more favourable the prognosis is. Thus, early referral and management are essential. Vestibulotoxicity is a commonly overlooked aetiology when assessing dizzy patients. This could be due to the difficulty that patients have in describing vestibular symptoms in general, as well as the absence of vertigo as a presenting complaint. Discussion includes the clinical presentation of vestibulotoxicity and its sequelae, as well as strategies to assess and monitor patients.

Keywords:

• aminoglycosides
• balance problems
• ototoxicity
• vestibular disorder