Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo in children.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the clinical features of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) in children.

DESIGN

A retrospective study.

SETTING

Six children diagnosed with BPPV between March 2014 and March 2015 were retrospectively evaluated. BPPV was diagnosed using the Dix-Hallpike and supine roll tests and treated with either the modified Epley particle repositioning procedure or Lempert or Gufoni manoeuvre. Follow-up was performed at 1-week intervals until vertigo and nystagmus disappeared during positional testing.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of six children were followed up for a period of 10-22 months.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Clinical features such as history, nystagmus and symptoms of vertigo, dizziness and nausea.

RESULTS

Six children were diagnosed with BPPV using positional testing and treated with the modified Epley or Lempert/Gufoni particle repositioning procedures. Four children were diagnosed with posterior canal BPPV, while the remaining two were diagnosed with horizontal canal BPPV. One girl reported a history of head trauma, one girl had a family history of vertigo, and one boy reported hearing loss in the same ear as that affected by BPPV. Overall, 83.33% of children (5/6) were completely relieved of vertigo following one treatment session. The remaining child was asymptomatic after two sessions. No child reported relapse of vertigo during the follow-up period.

CONCLUSIONS

BPPV can be diagnosed accurately by taking a detailed medical history and by use of positional testing. BPPV in children can be successfully identified and treated.