When evaluating a suspected case of vertigo, which abnormal findings might a physician anticipate?

When evaluating a suspected case of vertigo, a physician might anticipate a positive Romberg test result as it is indicative of a balance issue, which can often be linked to vestibular dysfunction or proprioceptive loss. The Romberg test assesses an individual's ability to maintain balance while standing with their feet together and eyes closed. A positive result typically reflects difficulties in maintaining equilibrium, which is frequently seen in patients with vertigo due to inner ear issues or central nervous system involvement.

In the context of vertigo, conditions affecting the vestibular system—such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), vestibular neuritis, or Ménière's disease—can lead to altered balance and spatial orientation, thus resulting in a positive Romberg sign. This finding aids physicians in localizing the cause of vertigo and distinguishes it from other causes of dizziness that may not involve balance dysfunction.

The other options presented—bradykinesia, exophthalmos, and epistaxis—do not typically correlate with vertigo. Bradykinesia suggests conditions primarily involving motor control issues, which is not a primary finding in vertigo. Exophthalmos is associated with thyroid disease and would not be relevant in a standard vertigo