[Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo: provocation and freeing manoeuvres]

An Pediatr (Barc). 2008 Aug;69(2):167-70. doi: 10.1157/13124898.
[Article in Spanish]

Abstract

The benign paroxystic positional vertigo (BPPV) is defined by brief episodic vertigo attacks and accompanied by a rotary-linear nystagmus, triggered by head position changes and is always produced in that position. The theory that better explains the BPPV is canalithiasis: free-floating particles leave the utricular macula and enter one of the semicircular canals, producing an endolymphatic movement that stimulates the cupula and produces vertigo and nystagmus. The diagnosis is based on a typical clinical history, normal ear and neurological examination and provocation maneuvers, such as the Dix-Hallpike test, reproduce the vertigo attacks. The treatments are the liberatory maneuvers, such as the Epley maneuver which makes the vertigo disappear. We present two cases of vertigo with a compatible clinic history of BPPV, where the Dix-Hallpike maneuver confirmed the diagnosis. The treatment in both cases was the Epley maneuver.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Physical Therapy Modalities
  • Vertigo / diagnosis*
  • Vertigo / therapy*