[Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo].
BACKGROUND
Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo is a disorder of the inner ear causing brief attacks of intense rotatory vertigo and nystagmus occurring shortly after certain well-defined head movements. The present review discusses treatment of this disease in relation to new knowledge about its epidemiology and pathogenesis.


METHODS
A review is given based on our experience and a Medline search of relevant literature published over the last ten years.


RESULTS
The disorder is common; prevalence increases with age. There is now general agreement that the symptoms are caused by loose particles in the endolymph of the inner ear. Treatment by repositioning manoeuvres has proven effective.


CONCLUSIONS
Treatment of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo is safe, effective, and inexpensive. It should start at the time of diagnosis. Management of typical cases should be feasible in a general practice setting.
Goplen
Frederik
F
Kompetansesenter for vestibulaere sykdommer Øre-nese-halsavdelingen Haukeland Sykehus 5021 Bergen. frederik.goplen@ore.uib.no
Nordahl
Stein Helge Glad
SH
D006801:Humans; D009759:Nystagmus, Pathologic / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities; D011187:Posture; D014717:Vertigo / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy