Nystagmus Latent

Latent nystagmus (n. latens) is an oculomotor disorder in which involuntary oscillatory eye movements occur. These movements are usually not visible during external examination, but appear when special tests are performed, such as the caloric test.

With latent nystagmus, there is no obvious spontaneous nystagmus observed at rest with eyes open. However, when the vestibular system is stimulated, for example during rotational tests or caloric stimulation of the ear canals, pathological nystagmus appears.

Latent nystagmus is often associated with disorders in the central parts of the vestibular system. It may be caused by a stroke, tumor, or other lesion of the brainstem, cerebellum, or vestibular nuclei. To make a diagnosis, neuroimaging and vestibulometry are important.

Treatment of latent nystagmus is aimed at eliminating the causative disease. Medicines may be used to reduce dizziness and movement problems. Physiotherapy helps improve compensation for vestibular deficits. The prognosis depends on the underlying disease.