Abstract
BACKGROUND: This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of the STANDING algorithm for central vertigo across different emergency departments (EDs). Secondary outcomes compared STANDING with usual care in terms of diagnostic accuracy, resource utilisation and length of stay (LOS). METHODS: We prospectively enrolled adult patients presenting with vertigo at one 'hub' and three 'spoke' EDs in Tuscany. Patients were assessed using either STANDING or 'usual care', depending on the availability of a trained emergency physician. Imaging tests, consultations and dispositions were made independently of the study. The final diagnosis of central vertigo was determined by an expert panel, based on clinical data, along with a 30-day follow-up. RESULTS: A total of 456 patients were included, with 242 (53%) assessed by STANDING. There were no statistically significant differences in age, gender or cardiovascular risk factors between the STANDING and usual care groups. The prevalence of central vertigo was 8.6%, with ischaemic stroke (4.2%) as the leading cause, with no differences between groups. The STANDING algorithm had a sensitivity of 88.2%, specificity of 91.6%, positive predictive value of 44.1%, and negative predictive value of 99%. Usual care showed lower specificity and positive predictive value (36.5% and 14.7%, respectively, p<0.05). Additionally, the STANDING group had both fewer non-contrast head CT (NCCT) requests (48.3% vs 66.8%) and a shorter LOS (median 271 vs 339 min) (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The STANDING algorithm demonstrated high diagnostic accuracy and a very high negative predictive value for central vertigo across EDs and appears to be associated with improved specificity, reduced use of NCCT and shorter LOS compared with 'usual care'.