New Technology to Speed Up Diagnosis of Stroke from Vertigo, Dizziness Symptoms

In a recent research, scientists have come up with a technique to distinguish stroke from peripheral vestibular in patients with vertigo and dizziness.

According to the scientists, this technology could have the potential to save those tens of thousands of lives, which are lost every year due to misdiagnosis. Moreover, it could spare patients the money and time spent in MRI.

The system includes a pair of goggles mounted with a webcam and accelerometer. A software analyzes the signals from the setup and detects abnormal eye movements when the head is turned.

A team of physicians from Johns Hopkins University, the University of Illinois and the University of Michigan, tested the device on a relatively small group of 12 emergency department patients who were admitted with persistent dizziness, abnormal rapid eye movements, vomiting and improper balance.

The device recorded a cent percent accuracy in distinguishing stroke from peripheral vestibular.

However, the researchers acknowledged that an extensive study with larger sample is required to confirm its efficiency.

Source: Medindia