The test is commonly used by physicians, audiologists and other trained professionals to validate a diagnosis of asymmetric function in the peripheral vestibular system.

[2] It can also induce a temporary remission of anosognosia, the visual and personal aspects of hemispatial neglect, hemianesthesia, and other consequences of right hemispheric damage.

[3] Ice cold or warm water or air is introduced into the external auditory canal, usually using a syringe.

The temperature difference between the body and the injected water creates a convective current in the endolymph of the nearby lateral semicircular canal.

[4] In patients with an intact brainstem: Absent reactive eye movement suggests vestibular weakness of the horizontal semicircular canal of the side being stimulated.