1.3.3 Benign paroxysmal vertigo of childhood

Description:

This probably heterogeneous disorder is characterised by recurrent brief episodic attacks of vertigo occurring without warning and resolving spontaneously in otherwise healthy children.

Diagnostic criteria:

A. At least 5 attacks fulfilling criterion B

B. Multiple episodes of severe vertigo (see Note 1), occurring without warning and resolving spontaneously after minutes to hours

C. Normal neurological examination and audiometric and vestibular functions between attacks

D. Normal electroencephalogram

Note:

1. Often associated with nystagmus or vomiting; unilateral throbbing headache may occur in some attacks.

© 2003 International Headache Society (quoted from International Headache Society, 2004)

References

International Headache Society. The International Classification of Headache Disorders, 2nd edition. Cephalalgia 2004; 24 (suppl. 1): 1-160.

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