Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 27, 2025

05:02
Using Unidirectional Rotations to Improve Vestibular System Asymmetry in Patients with Vestibular Dysfunction
Published on: August 30, 2019
7.4K
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo in Children: A Narrative Review
Francesca Galluzzi1, Werner Garavello2
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy.
The Journal of International Advanced Otology
|April 14, 2022
Summary
Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is a rare pediatric vestibular disorder. Diagnosis involves positional testing, and treatment uses repositioning maneuvers, though recurrences can occur.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Otolaryngology
- Vestibular Disorders
- Neurology
Background:
- Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is a rare vestibular disorder in children.
- It presents as brief vertigo episodes triggered by specific head movements.
- Most pediatric BPPV cases are secondary, often involving the posterior or horizontal semicircular canals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current evidence on pediatric benign paroxysmal positional vertigo.
- To highlight diagnostic and treatment strategies for BPPV in children.
- To emphasize the need for increased awareness among healthcare providers.
Main Methods:
- Narrative review of literature.
- Systematic searches on PubMed and cross-referencing.
- Analysis of retrospective, non-controlled studies with small pediatric cohorts.
Main Results:
- Pediatric BPPV is rare, with limited research, mostly retrospective studies.
- Secondary BPPV is most common, frequently affecting posterior and horizontal canals.
- Diagnosis relies on Dix-Hallpike and supine roll tests; treatment involves Semont, Epley, Gufoni, or Barbecue maneuvers.
Conclusions:
- BPPV in children is a recognized entity diagnosed by positional tests and treated with repositioning maneuvers.
- Treatment resistance and recurrences are noted, especially in those with vestibular migraine or BPPV of childhood.
- Enhanced awareness and education for pediatric providers and otolaryngologists are crucial to prevent diagnostic and treatment delays.
Related Concept Videos
Equilibrium and Balance
5.1K
The inner ear assumes dual functionalities of auditory perception and equilibrium maintenance. The vestibule is the organ responsible for balance. This organ contains mechanoreceptors, specifically hair cells, endowed with stereocilia, which aid in deciphering information regarding the position and motion of our heads. Two intrinsic components, the utricle and saccule, help perceive head position, while the semicircular canals track head movement. Neurological messages initiated in the...
5.1K
The Vestibular System
40.3K
The vestibular system is a set of inner ear structures that provide a sense of balance and spatial orientation. This system is comprised of structures within the labyrinth of the inner ear, including the cochlea and two otolith organs—the utricle and saccule. The labyrinth also contains three semicircular canals—superior, posterior, and horizontal—that are oriented on different planes.
40.3K
Pathophysiology of Vomiting
1.3K
Vomiting is a complex physiological response to expel harmful or irritating substances from the body. It's a defensive mechanism triggered by stimuli like poisons, microbial toxins, cytotoxic drugs, and mechanical abdominal distension. The process is centrally coordinated by the vomiting (or emetic) center located in the medulla of the brainstem. This area, rich in muscarinic M1, histamine H1, neurokinin 1 (NK1), and serotonin 5-HT3 receptors, coordinates the act of vomiting through...
1.3K

