Abstract

ERAZO TORRICELLI, Ricardo. Vertigo in children. Medicina (B. Aires) [online]. 2007, vol.67, n.6, suppl.1, pp.631-638. ISSN 0025-7680.

Vertigo is uncommon in children, but it is usually underecognized and it has not been well referenced in the medical literature until the 1980s. It is defined as a subjective sensation of movement of the body or the surrounding, and it is a symptom that may have multiple causes. This paper reviews the different types of vertigo in children, emphasizing their clinical features that may be useful in establishing the diagnosis. Of particular relevance is an accurate clinical history and a complete otologic and neurologic examination. More common causes of pediatric vertigo are otitis media and migraine variants, particularly benign paroxysmal vertigo. An appropriate approach to the child with vertigo begins with the clinical suspicion, based on a detailed clinical history and examination, and specific tests. Diagnosis should be followed by adequate symptomatic treatment and management of the underlying specific causes.

Keywords : Vertigo; Children; Benign paroxysmal vertigo; Otitis media; Basilar artery migraine; Vestibular neuronitis.

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