Syndromal Vertigo Identified by Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Angiography

The advent of magnetic resonance imaging and angiography has clarified the location and vascular basis for vertigo of a syndromal type. The composite presentation of a vestibular symptom with evidence of cranial nerve or cerebellar dysfunction suggests a lesion within the pons, medulla, or cerebellum. The location may be exactly defined by noninvasive techniques and appropriate therapy can be initiated. Clinical examples are presented; the syndromes of vertebrobasilar artery perfusion disorder are described, and appropriate images are illustrated for confirmation.