Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo

Question 1

what does paroxysmal mean

Answer 1

sudden onset but temporary. sudden outburst of a symptom.

Question 2

what does vertigo mean

Answer 2

false sensation of spinning resulting in dizziness

Question 3

what is BPPV

Answer 3

a peripheral vestibular disorder that manifests as sudden, short-lived episodes of vertigo elicited by specific head movements.

Question 4

summary of pathophysiology (NOT ASSESSABLE)

Answer 4

Most cases result from the migration of free-floating endolymph canalith particles (thought to be displaced otoconia from the utricular otolithic membrane) into the posterior (more commonly), horizontal (less commonly), or anterior (rarely) semicircular canals, rendering them sensitive to gravity.

Question 5

epidemiology

Answer 5

is one of the most common causes of vertigo. It is often self-limiting, but can become chronic and relapsing with considerable effects on a patient’s quality of life

Question 6

aetiology

Answer 6

displacement of the otoliths(from degeneration, trauma or post-viral) into the semi-circular canal

Question 7

presenting symptoms

Answer 7

dizziness, vertigo, loss of balance or unsteadiness, nausea/vomiting, normal neurological and otological examination

Question 8

investigations for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)

Answer 8

Dix-Hallpike manoeuvre

supine lateral head turns

Question 9

what is the Dix-hallpike manoeuvre

Answer 9

A positive Dix-Hallpike tests consists of a burst of nystagmus (jumping of the eyes). In classic posterior canal BPPV, the eyes jump upward as well as twist so that the top part of the eye jumps toward the down side.

Question 10

treatment

Answer 10

patient education and reassurance