[Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo: provocation and freeing manoeuvres].

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Otolaryngology
• Vestibular System Disorders

Background:

• Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is a common cause of episodic vertigo.
• It is characterized by brief, intense vertigo and nystagmus upon specific head position changes.
• The canalithiasis theory suggests free-floating otoconia in the semicircular canals cause BPPV.

Observation:

• Two cases of vertigo with clinical histories consistent with BPPV were evaluated.
• The Dix-Hallpike maneuver was utilized to provoke and confirm the diagnosis in both patients.
• Both patients presented with typical symptoms and findings suggestive of BPPV.

Findings:

• The Dix-Hallpike maneuver successfully reproduced vertigo and nystagmus, confirming BPPV diagnosis in both cases.
• The Epley maneuver was administered as the treatment for both patients.
• The Epley maneuver led to the resolution of vertigo symptoms in both presented cases.

Implications:

• This case series highlights the diagnostic utility of the Dix-Hallpike maneuver for BPPV.
• It underscores the efficacy of the Epley maneuver as a primary treatment for BPPV.
• These findings support current clinical guidelines for BPPV diagnosis and management.