Vestibular paroxysmia in children: a treatable cause of short vertigo attacks

Abstract

Vestibular paroxysmia due to neurovascular compression is a syndrome consisting of frequent short episodes of vertigo in adults that can be easily treated. Here we describe the initial presentation and follow-up of three children (one female, 12y; two males, 8y and 9y) who experienced typical, brief, vertiginous attacks several times a day. Nystagmus was observed during the episodes. Cranial magnetic resonance imaging revealed arterial compression of the eighth cranial nerve. The attacks ceased after administration of low-dose carbamazepine (2-4mg/kg daily). Vestibular paroxysmia must be considered in the differential diagnosis of children with brief vertiginous episodes.