Benign paroxysmal vertigo of childhood

ABSTRACT

Benign paroxysmal vertigo (BPV), one of the most common causes of pediatric vertigo, is characterized by recurrent sudden short-lived attacks of vertigo, which resolve spontaneously without residual disability in otherwise healthy children. In this report, we present a literature review on BPV in childhood.Current Concepts A child with BPV appears frightened and experiences a spinning sensation with occasional nystagmus and vomiting. Episodes usually last less than a minute and are not associated with hearing loss and altered consciousness. Most patients present with a relapsing-remitting clinical course for weeks to years, after which they usually resolve spontaneously. Based on current evidence, BPV of childhood is considered a variant of migraine, and vasospasm observed in patients with migraine plays an important role in the pathogenesis of this disorder. It is important to differentiate BPV from other diseases that present with vertigo, including basilar migraine, closed head injury, psychiatric dizziness, and acute labyrinthitis.Discussion and Conclusion: BPV is a common but important disorder observed in children and should be considered in the differential diagnosis in children with the aforementioned clinical presentation. It is important to reassure patients and parents regarding the benign course of BPV.