The importance of magnetic resonance imaging in the evaluation of vertigo and imbalance

Vertigo and imbalance are believed to be rare manifestations of skull base neoplasms. Patients with skull base neoplasms can present with vague otolar yngological complaints, including diplopia, facial numbness, facial weaknes s, hearing loss, tinnitus, hoarseness, headache, and otalgia. Physical exam ination of these patients can sometimes reveal paralysis or paresis of cran ial nerves. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the gold standard for evalu ation of cranial nerve involvement in skull base diseases. Vertigo and imba lance can be manifestations of a neuropathy or lesion within the vestibular system and may be subtle or overlooked findings in patients with skull bas e diseases. The purpose of this article is to review the clinical manifesta tions of patients presenting with vertigo and imbalance who were found to h ave skull base neoplasms. We will also highlight the importance of MRI in d iagnosis and management of these patients.