Final answer:
Central nystagmus generally arises from brain issues, detected through neuroimaging, while peripheral nystagmus is related to the vestibular system, assessed via eye movement tests and specialized vestibular evaluations.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question asks for the differential diagnosis between peripheral nystagmus and central nystagmus. Nystagmus refers to involuntary, rhythmic oscillations of one or both eyes. It’s important to distinguish between central nystagmus, which is typically caused by issues with the brain such as stroke or multiple sclerosis and peripheral nystagmus, which is often related to problems with the inner ear or vestibular system such as vestibular neuritis.
The vestibulo-ocular reflex and testing eye movement are relevant because they are part of the neurological examination to assess the integrity of the connections between the vestibular system and the cranial nerves that control eye movement. Failure of these systems can result in symptoms like diplopia (double vision) or dysfunctional eye movements like nystagmus. When analyzing eye movement, conjugate movements are observed to assess the coordination between the eyes.
Central nystagmus might involve more complex diagnostic imaging like MRI to assess the brain, while for peripheral nystagmus, tests like electronystagmography might be used to evaluate the vestibular system. Therefore, imaging or specialized testing is often necessary to ascertain the underlying cause and determine the appropriate treatment.