Neuro tutorial 1: Clinical approach to acute vertigo

Question 1

Define Vertigo

Answer 1

Vertigo = illusion of movement, usually rotational

Question 2

What are some symptoms of Vertigo?

Answer 2

• dizziness

- unsteadiness

Question 3

What are the 2 main types of balance disorders?

Answer 3

1. peripheral vestibular disorders

2. Central vestibular disorders

Question 4

What are the main causes of vertigo ?

Answer 4

• BPPV (35%)
• Vestibular neuritis (15%)
• Migrainous Vertigo (15%)
• Stroke
• Mixed
• Meniere’s

Question 5

What are main features of vertigo due to BPPV ?

Answer 5

• brief

- right hall pike + semont

Question 6

What are main features of vertigo due to Vestibular neuritis ?

Answer 6

• subacute onset (min –> hours)
• continuous vertigo
• Positive head impulse test
• normal gait
• obvious vestibular nystagmus

Question 7

What are main features of vertigo due to Migrainous Vertigo?

Answer 7

• history of migraine

- acute vertigo and (possibly headache)

Question 8

What are main features of vertigo due to CEREBELLAR STROKE?

Answer 8

• sudden onset
• difficulty walking
  headache
• head impulse test = preserved
• eye movement = normal