audiovestibular

Audiovestibular refers to the combined auditory and vestibular systems, which are sensory systems responsible for hearing and balance. The term is used in medicine and neuroscience to describe functions, diseases, and diagnostic testing that involve both hearing and balance.

The auditory system includes the cochlea and neural pathways from the inner ear to the auditory cortex; the vestibular system comprises the semicircular canals, utricle, and saccule that detect head motion and orientation. Both systems share the inner ear anatomy and the vestibulocochlear nerve (cranial nerve VIII) as the primary route to the brainstem. In many cases, disorders affect both hearing and balance, requiring integrated assessment.

Clinically, audiovestibular disorders include sensorineural hearing loss, tinnitus, vertigo, dizziness, and imbalance; common causes include infections, Ménière's disease, vestibular schwannoma, and ototoxic medications. Evaluation relies on audiometry, tympanometry, acoustic reflex testing, as well as vestibular testing such as videonystagmography, caloric testing, and vestibular-evoked myogenic potentials. Treatments depend on the condition and may involve hearing rehabilitation with hearing aids or cochlear implants, vestibular rehabilitation therapy, medications, or surgery in select cases.

The field spans audiology, otolaryngology, and neurology, emphasizing an integrated approach to diagnosis and management to preserve or restore function in both hearing and balance.