Italian survey on benign paroxysmal positional vertigo

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Otolaryngology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is a common peripheral vertigo with high recurrence rates (15-50%).
• The exact causes of otoconia detachment and BPPV recurrence remain unclear.
• Emerging evidence suggests a potential link between cardiovascular risk factors and BPPV.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate demographic and clinical characteristics of BPPV patients in Italy.
• To specifically examine the association between cardiovascular risk factors and BPPV, including recurrent cases.

Main Methods:

• An observational survey (Sesto Senso Survey) conducted in 158 Italian vestibology centers.
• Data collected from 2,682 patients with BPPV (first episode or recurrent) between January 2013 and December 2014.
• Analysis focused on prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors, comorbidities, and their relation to BPPV recurrence.

Main Results:

• High prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors observed: hypertension (55.8%), hypercholesterolemia (38.6%), diabetes (17.7%).
• Hypertension, dyslipidemia, and cardiovascular comorbidities were significantly associated with recurrent BPPV (OR 1.84-2.31).
• Diabetes and thyroid/autoimmune diseases also showed a relevant association with recurrence (OR 1.73-1.89).

Conclusions:

• Cardiovascular comorbidities are significantly associated with recurrent BPPV in the Italian population.
• These factors represent potential key risk factors for BPPV recurrence.
• Findings suggest evaluating new therapeutic strategies targeting cardiovascular health for BPPV management.