Treatment of vertigo

Cerumen impaction.

Am Fam Physician. 2007 May 15;75(10):1523-8

Authors: McCarter DF, Courtney AU, Pollart SM

Cerumen is a naturally occurring, normally extruded product of the external auditory canal. It is usually asymptomatic, but when it becomes impacted it can cause complications such as hearing loss, pain, or dizziness. It also can interfere with examination of the tympanic membrane. Depending on available equipment, physician skill, and patient circumstances, treatment options for cerumen impaction include watchful waiting, manual removal, the use of ceruminolytic agents, and irrigation with or without ceruminolytic pretreatment. The overall quality of the evidence on treatment is limited. Referral to an otolaryngologist for further evaluation is indicated if treatment with a ceruminolytic agent followed by irrigation is ineffective, if manual removal is not possible, if the patient develops severe pain or has vertigo during irrigation, or if hearing loss is still present after cerumen has been removed. The use of cotton swabs and ear candles should be avoided.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 17555144 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

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Total resection of a hemorrhagic tectal pilocytic astrocytoma--case report.

Neurol Med Chir (Tokyo). 2007 May;47(5):219-21

Authors: Oka F, Yamashita Y, Kumabe T, Tominaga T

A 21-year-old man presented with a hemorrhagic pilocytic astrocytoma of the tectal plate manifesting as sudden onset of severe headache, vertigo, nausea, and vomiting. Computed tomography demonstrated acute hydrocephalus and hemorrhage within the brain stem and fourth ventricle. Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging revealed a dorsally exophytic tectal tumor as hypointense on the T(1)-weighted image and hyperintense on the T(2)-weighted image with contrast enhancement. Radical resection of the tumor was selected because of the unusual aggressive clinical course with hemorrhage and suspicion of malignant components. The tumor was totally resected via an occipital transtentorial approach using a neuronavigation system without surgical complications. The histological diagnosis was pilocytic astrocytoma. The patient was discharged home without neurological deficits on the 9th postoperative day. Twenty-three months after the surgery, follow-up MR imaging demonstrated no recurrence. Tectal plate pilocytic astrocytoma is rarely associated with hemorrhage but should be considered in the differential diagnosis of intracranial hemorrhage with acute presentation. Such exceptional tectal tumors should be resected radically and undergo histological examination to decide on further appropriate treatment.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 17527049 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

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Medullary hemorrhagic infarction after radiation for nasopharyngeal carcinoma.

Intern Med. 2007;46(9):611-5

Authors: Liu JR, Huang J, Zhang M, Wei QC, Song Y, Huang JZ, Ding MP, Jia PJ

Head and neck irradiation may lead to accelerated atherosclerosis over several years. Delayed stroke has been described after head and neck irradiation administered for a number of conditions. However, brain stem stroke has only rarely been associated with irradiation. We report a patient with medullary hemorrhagic infarction 6 years after radiotherapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma. A 42-year-old normotensive Chinese male had rapid onset of vertigo, diplopia, ataxia, dysphagia, hypophonic dysarthria, hemiparesis, and respiratory distress. Cranial MR imaging 2 days after symptom onset showed medullary infarction, and cranial MR imaging 5 days after symptom onset showed medullary hemorrhage. He needed ventilatory support and died of bacterial pneumonia 1 month later. Other risk factors for stroke were absent. Hemorrhagic infarction in this patient was likely associated with the radiotherapy. Radiotherapy is the first choice of treatment for nasopharyngeal carcinoma, however, it may induce fatal medullary hemorrhagic infarction.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 17473500 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

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Toll-like receptor 2-dependent NF-kappaB activation is involved in nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae-induced monocyte chemotactic protein 1 up-regulation in the spiral ligament fibrocytes of the inner ear.

Infect Immun. 2007 Jul;75(7):3361-72

Authors: Moon SK, Woo JI, Lee HY, Park R, Shimada J, Pan H, Gellibolian R, Lim DJ

Inner ear dysfunction secondary to chronic otitis media (OM), including high-frequency sensorineural hearing loss or vertigo, is not uncommon. Although chronic middle ear inflammation is believed to cause inner ear dysfunction by entry of OM pathogen components or cytokines from the middle ear into the inner ear, the underlying mechanisms are not well understood. Previously, we demonstrated that the spiral ligament fibrocyte (SLF) cell line up-regulates monocyte chemotactic protein 1 (MCP-1) expression after treatment with nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae (NTHI), one of the most common OM pathogens. We hypothesized that the SLF-derived MCP-1 plays a role in inner ear inflammation secondary to OM that is responsible for hearing loss and dizziness. The purpose of this study was to investigate the signaling pathway involved in NTHI-induced MCP-1 up-regulation in SLFs. Here we show for the first time that NTHI induces MCP-1 up-regulation in the SLFs via Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2)-dependent activation of NF-kappaB. TLR2(-/-)- and MyD88(-/-)-derived SLFs revealed involvement of TLR2 and MyD88 in NTHI-induced MCP-1 up-regulation. Studies using chemical inhibitors and dominant-negative constructs demonstrated that it is mediated by the IkappaKbeta-dependent IkappaBalpha phosphorylation and NTHI-induced NF-kappaB nuclear translocation. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the binding of NF-kappaB to the enhancer region of MCP-1 is involved in this up-regulation. In addition, we have identified a potential NF-kappaB motif that is responsive and specific to certain NTHI molecules or ligands. Further studies are necessary to reveal specific ligands of NTHI that activate host receptors. These results may provide us with new therapeutic strategies for prevention of inner ear dysfunction secondary to chronic middle ear inflammation.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 17452470 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

Positional vertigo afterwards maxillary dental implant surgery with bone regeneration.

Med Oral Patol Oral Cir Bucal. 2007 Mar;12(2):E151-3

Authors: Rodr?guez Guti?rrez C, Rodr?guez G?mez E

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is the most common form of vertigo. It is caused by loose otoconia from the utricle which, in certain positions, displaced the cupula of the posterior semicircular canal. BPPV most often is a result of aging. It also can occur after a blow to the head. Less common causes include a prolonged positioning on the back (supine) during some surgical procedures. Additionally one can include in this ethiopathogenesis the positioning required during the maxillary dental implant surgery with bone regeneration related to a forced head positioning and inner ear trauma induced by dental turbine noise working in the maxillary bone. Two cases of patients who suffered BPPV after undergoing maxillary dental implant with bone regeneration procedures are reported. Diagnosis and treatment are also described.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 17322805 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

Prognostic indicators of management of sudden sensorineural hearing loss in an Asian hospital.

Singapore Med J. 2007 Jan;48(1):45-9

Authors: Tiong TS

INTRODUCTION: This retrospective review evaluates the prognostic indicators in the management of sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) in otorhinolaryngology patients admitted to Brunei RIPAS Hospital. METHODS: The review covered data collected from 1996 to 1998, and included patients who were treated with naftidrofuryl and dexamethasone. Their hearing improvement (more than 20 dB) in relation to pure tone audiogram patterns, hearing loss severity, vertigo, age of the patients and duration from symptom onset to time of treatment, were evaluated. RESULTS: After exclusion of three patients with known causes of hearing loss, 50 patients with idiopathic SSNHL were reviewed. Six audiogram patterns were observed with good prognostic indicators in patterns 1 and 4, where respectively, 95 percent and 100 percent of the patients improved. The hearing improvement was noted in the majority of the patients with mild or moderate degree of hearing loss, especially noticeable in audiogram patterns 1 and 4. Initial vertigo gave poor prognosis in hearing (more than 33 percent patients with vertigo improved versus 88 percent patients without vertigo improved). Patients aged between 21 and 60 years appear to have better prognosis of hearing improvement compared to those who are outside of this age range. 92 percent patients whose treatment started within the first week of onset of hearing loss experienced hearing improvement compared to 84 percent patients whose treatment started in the second week after onset. CONCLUSION: Fairly consistent with the previously-reported prognostic indicators are hearing loss severity, vertigo, age and duration of onset to treatment, though there was reasonably good prognosis when the patients were treated in the second week from hearing loss onset. Further findings of note were the six audiogram patterns and the good prognostic indicators in patterns 1 and 4.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 17245516 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

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Vertigo after renal transplantation: a sign of paucisymptomatic cryptococcal meningitis.

Exp Clin Transplant. 2006 Dec;4(2):525-7

Authors: Mehrenberger M, Kamar N, Borde JS, Est?ve-Fraysse MJ, Viguier A, Recco P, Durand D, Rostaing L

We report what is to our knowledge the first case of severe isolated vertigo that developed after renal transplantation and was a manifestation of cryptococcal meningitis. Treatment with antifungal therapy resulted in the complete resolution of vertiginous symptoms. Immunosuppressed patients with an opportunistic infection of the central nervous system can present with extremely tenuous features of infection and atypical neurologic signs.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 17238852 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

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Meniett clinical trial: long-term follow-up.

Arch Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2006 Dec;132(12):1311-6

Authors: Gates GA, Verrall A, Green JD, Tucci DL, Telian SA

OBJECTIVE: To delineate 2-year efficacy of Meniett device therapy in people with classic, unilateral, M?ni?re's disease unresponsive to traditional medical treatment. DESIGN: A 2-year long-term unblinded follow-up after a prior randomized, placebo-controlled, multicenter clinical trial of the Meniett device for M?ni?re's disease. SETTING: Follow-up was performed remotely by using diaries and questionnaires mailed to the data coordinating center by the participants. Those who failed to mail their diaries were interviewed by telephone. PARTICIPANTS: Sixty-one study participants agreed to use the Meniett device and report their symptoms for 2 years. All had active, unilateral cochleovestibular disease. Outcomes are available for 58 participants; 2 were unavailable for follow-up and 1 was excluded because of a concurrent condition that precluded Meniett device use. INTERVENTIONS: Participants were advised to adhere to a low-sodium diet, use the Meniett device 3 times daily, and maintain a patent tympanostomy tube in the affected ear. Diuretic and vestibular suppressant medications were used as needed. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Outcomes were based on the participants' daily diary, questionnaires, and telephone interviews. Three different analyses were prepared: tracking of vertigo frequency throughout the study, comparison of vertigo frequency before and at the end of Meniett device use (American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Foundation reporting guideline), and Kaplan-Meier estimates of vertigo remission and recurrence. RESULTS: Vertigo levels gradually improved for most but not all participants. American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Foundation class A (remission) or class B (greatly improved) results occurred in 67% (39/58) of participants, and class F (dropped out to receive surgical therapy) results occurred in 24%. Of the 44 nondropout participants, 39 (89%) had American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Foundation group A or B outcomes. People who went into remission were highly likely (80%) to remain in remission long term; participants who achieved remission (20/43; 47%) did so within the first year of follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Use of the Meniett device was associated with a significant reduction in vertigo frequency in about two thirds of the participants, and this improvement was maintained long term. Therapy with the Meniett device is a safe and effective option for people with substantial vertigo uncontrolled by medical therapy.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 17178941 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

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Superior Canal Dehiscence Syndrome.

Rev Bras Otorrinolaringol (Engl Ed). 2006 May-Jun;72(3):414-8

Authors: da Cunha Ferreira S, de Melo Tavares de Lima MA

The Superior Canal Dehiscence Syndrome (SCDS) was first reported by Minor at. Al. (1998), and has been characterized by vertigo and vertical-torsional eye movements related to loud sounds or stimuli that change middle ear or intracranial pressure. Hearing loss, for the most part with conductive patterns on audiometry, may be present in this syndrome. We performed a literature survey in order to to present symptoms, signs, diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to the SCDS, also aiming at stressing the great importance of including this syndrome among the tractable cause of vertigo. We should emphasize that this is a recent issue, still unknown by some specialists. The Correct SCDS diagnosis, besides enabling patient treatment, precludes misdiagnosis and inadequate therapeutic approaches.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 17119781 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

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Oral treatment with alpha-lipoic acid improves symptomatic diabetic polyneuropathy: the SYDNEY 2 trial.

Diabetes Care. 2006 Nov;29(11):2365-70

Authors: Ziegler D, Ametov A, Barinov A, Dyck PJ, Gurieva I, Low PA, Munzel U, Yakhno N, Raz I, Novosadova M, Maus J, Samigullin R

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this trial was to evaluate the effects of alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) on positive sensory symptoms and neuropathic deficits in diabetic patients with distal symmetric polyneuropathy (DSP). RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: In this multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 181 diabetic patients in Russia and Israel received once-daily oral doses of 600 mg (n = 45) (ALA600), 1,200 mg (n = 47) (ALA1200), and 1,800 mg (ALA1800) of ALA (n = 46) or placebo (n = 43) for 5 weeks after a 1-week placebo run-in period. The primary outcome measure was the change from baseline of the Total Symptom Score (TSS), including stabbing pain, burning pain, paresthesia, and asleep numbness of the feet. Secondary end points included individual symptoms of TSS, Neuropathy Symptoms and Change (NSC) score, Neuropathy Impairment Score (NIS), and patients' global assessment of efficacy. RESULTS: Mean TSS did not differ significantly at baseline among the treatment groups and on average decreased by 4.9 points (51%) in ALA600, 4.5 (48%) in ALA1200, and 4.7 (52%) in ALA1800 compared with 2.9 points (32%) in the placebo group (all P < 0.05 vs. placebo). The corresponding response rates (>/=50% reduction in TSS) were 62, 50, 56, and 26%, respectively. Significant improvements favoring all three ALA groups were also noted for stabbing and burning pain, the NSC score, and the patients' global assessment of efficacy. The NIS was numerically reduced. Safety analysis showed a dose-dependent increase in nausea, vomiting, and vertigo. CONCLUSIONS: Oral treatment with ALA for 5 weeks improved neuropathic symptoms and deficits in patients with DSP. An oral dose of 600 mg once daily appears to provide the optimum risk-to-benefit ratio.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 17065669 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

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Radiation therapy for glomus tumors of the temporal bone.

Rev Bras Otorrinolaringol (Engl Ed). 2005 Nov-Dec;71(6):752-7

Authors: Dall'Igna C, Antunes MB, Dall'Igna DP

The treatment of glomic tumors has been controversial since its first description. It can be done with surgery, radiotherapy or just expectation. AIM: The objective of this paper was to evaluate the effectiveness and complications of radiotherapy. STUDY DESIGN: clinical with transversal cohort. MATERIAL AND METHOD: It was made a retrospective review in the charts of the patients with glomus jugulare tumors treated with radiotherapy. Disease control was determined by (1) no progression of symptoms or cranial nerve dysfunction or (2) no progression of the lesion in radiological follow-up. It was also evaluated the follow-up period and the sequelae of the treatment. RESULTS: Twelve patients were included, 8 of then women. The follow-up period was from 3 to 35 years, with a media of 11,6 years. The main symptoms were: hearing loss, pulsate tinnitus, dizziness and vertigo. The signs were pulsate retrotympanic mass, facial palsy and cofosis. The tumors were staged using Fisch's classification. The radiotherapy was performed with linear accelerator with dose ranging from 4500-5500 in 4-6 weeks. In the follow-up period were possible to identify sequelaes like dermatitis, meatal stenosis, cofosis and facial palsy. DISCUSSION: The signs and symptoms were the same found in the medical literature. The type and dosages of the radiotherapy were also the same of others reports. All patients had improvement of the symptoms and only one was not considered as having disease controlled. Complications were, in general, minor complications, with exception of the cofosis and facial palsy. CONCLUSION: Radiotherapy is a viable alternative to treatment of these tumors because their good response and low level of complications. It should be considered specially in advanced tumors where a surgical procedure could bring a high level of morbidity.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 16878244 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

Endolymphatic sac tumour: a rare cause of recurrent vertigo.

Singapore Med J. 2006 Jul;47(7):627-30

Authors: Ong YK, Chee NW, Hwang PY, Goh J

Endolymphatic sac tumour occurring in a 32-year-old man presenting with Meniere's like symptoms of recurrent vertigo, hearing loss and tinnitus is described. Magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography showed a vascular bone tumour centred over the retrolabyrinthine aspect of the temporal bone where the endolymphatic sac was located. Surgical excision via a translabyrinthine approach was performed. Endolymphatic sac tumours are rare papillary adenocarcinomas that arise from the endolympatic sac. It can be mistaken both on radiology and histology for other tumours such as paragangliomas, renal or papillary thyroid carcinoma metastases. Surgical excision is the treatment of choice but sacrifice of the auditory and facial nerve may be needed in advanced cases to achieve tumour clearance.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 16810439 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

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Efficacy of postural restriction in treating benign paroxysmal positional vertigo.

Arch Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2006 May;132(5):501-5

Authors: Cakir BO, Ercan I, Cakir ZA, Turgut S

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the efficacy of postural restriction after canalith repositioning in treating benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). DESIGN: Prospective trial of patients with postural restriction vs those without postural restriction after treatment. PATIENTS: Patients with classic BPPV and with BPPV without nystagmus were treated using the modified Epley canalith repositioning procedure. Patients were randomly separated into 2 groups. The first group was instructed to wear a cervical collar and to maintain an upright head position for 2 days. The second group had no motion restriction. After 5 days, the patients were followed up and evaluated using the Dix-Hallpike test. RESULTS: In the first group, 56 of 62 ears healed after the first maneuver, and the remaining ears healed after the second. In the second group, 45 of 57 ears healed after the first maneuver, 6 after the second, and 5 (with subsequent postural restriction) after the third (1 ear did not improve). Five patients in the first group and 3 patients in the second group had BPPV without nystagmus; all of these patients healed after a single maneuver. The difference between the 2 groups in the number of maneuvers required for treatment was statistically significant (P<.05). The number of patients who required a third maneuver was significantly higher in the second group (P<.05). CONCLUSIONS: Postural restriction enhances the therapeutic effect of canalith repositioning in the treatment of posterior semicircular canal BPPV. The long-term efficacy of postural restriction in preventing BPPV recurrence has not been demonstrated.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 16702565 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

Nystagmus following acupuncture--a case report.

Acupunct Med. 2006 Mar;24(1):33-4

Authors: Bradbury A, Botancor J, White A

A 50 year old woman experienced an episode of vertigo and nystagmus about 10 minutes after receiving her first treatment with acupuncture for shoulder pain. The nystagmus was confirmed by several health professionals. She had no previous history of nystagmus, and the symptom was not associated with feelings of faintness. Her blood pressure was 90/50 at the onset of symptoms but returned to normal while the symptoms continued. She recovered spontaneously after about five hours. Nystagmus after acupuncture has not been unequivocally reported before, though dizziness associated with hypotension is common. In this case the association may be coincidental, or a focal neurological response to needling; if the latter, then it should be regarded as an unavoidable idiosyncratic reaction.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 16618047 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

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Short-term efficacy of Epley's manoeuvre: a double-blind randomised trial.

J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry. 2006 Aug;77(8):980-2

Authors: von Brevern M, Seelig T, Radtke A, Tiel-Wilck K, Neuhauser H, Lempert T

BACKGROUND: Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo of the posterior canal (PC-BPPV) is a common vestibular disorder and can be easily treated with Epley's manoeuvre. Thus far, the short-term efficacy of Epley's manoeuvre for treatment of PC-BPPV is unknown. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the efficacy of Epley's manoeuvre for treatment of PC-BPPV 24 h after applying the manoeuvre. METHODS: The short-term efficacy of Epley's manoeuvre was compared with a sham procedure in 66 patients with PC-BPPV by using a double-blind randomised study design. RESULTS: 24 h after treatment, 28 of 35 (80%) patients in the Epley's manoeuvre group had neither vertigo nor nystagmus on positional testing compared with 3 of 31 (10%) patients in the sham group (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: Epley's manoeuvre is shown to resolve PC-BPPV both effectively and rapidly.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 16549410 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

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Posture restrictions do not interfere in the results of canalith repositioning maneuver.

Rev Bras Otorrinolaringol (Engl Ed). 2005 Jan-Feb;71(1):55-9

Authors: Simoceli L, Bittar RS, Greters ME

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is a frequent cause of dizziness and despite of the excellent results with its treatment, there is some controversy about management. AIM: To assess the efficacy of Epley Maneuver with and without post-maneuver restrictions. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective randomized. MATERIAL AND METHOD: Fifty patients presenting BPPV of the posterior semicircular canal, treated with Epley Maneuver and divided into two groups: study group--23 patients--with post-maneuver restrictions, and control group--27 patients--without post-maneuver restrictions. RESULTS: No significant difference was found between the studied and the control group. CONCLUSION: Post-maneuver restrictions do not influence the efficacy of Epley Maneuver for BPPV management.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 16446892 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

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Cutaneous burns treated with hydrogel (Burnshield) and a semipermeable adhesive film.

Arch Surg. 2006 Jan;141(1):39-42

Authors: Osti E

HYPOTHESIS: A transparent adhesive film possessing selective permeability combined with a hydrogel (Burnshield) may be effective in burn patients to reduce skin maceration, improve medication, control pain more effectively, and reduce the incidence of late complications (hypertrophic scars). DESIGN: This is a prospective study; the mean follow-up in all patients was 28.4 months (range, 14-35 months). The external part of the film is impermeable to fluid and microorganisms, but allows transpiration of water vapor from the cutis. The permeability to water vapor of a semipermeable film in contact with liquids is measured in grams per meters squared every 24 hours at 37 degrees C, and is defined as the moisture vapor transmission rate. In this study, a film with a moisture vapor transmission rate of 1600 g/m(2) every 24 hours at 37 degrees C was used. PATIENTS: For about 2 years, this type of therapy was used in the first aid treatment of 48 burn patients, 4 of whom were lost during therapy and 4 of whom were unavailable for follow-up. INTERVENTIONS: The patients were treated with hydrogel and a semipermeable film at first medication, and some were treated in this way during subsequent medications. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The mean reepithelialization time of all patients was 17 days (range, 4-60 days); 8 (20%) of 40 patients with complications were treated with a gel (Same Plast Gel). Late complications were observed: hypertrophic scars in 2 patients (5%) and dyschromic lesions in 6 (15%). RESULTS: The most frequent complication, which occurred at various stages during medication, was skin maceration (15 [34%] of 44 patients). Other complications recorded during therapy were infections in 2 patients (5%), vertigo in 1 patient (2%), and abundant fibrin production in 1 patient (2%). In some of the patients, associated diseases and/or conditions were found: hepatic cirrhosis, diabetes mellitus, epilepsy, and pregnancy (33rd week) (each found in 1 patient each). Four patients were sent to the burn unit, 3 with second-degree burns of the hand and 1 with first-/second-degree burns of the abdomen and thigh, with 12% of the total body surface area burned. CONCLUSIONS: In the reepithelialization phase, complications were recorded in 8 of the 40 patients: 7 (18%) had residual inflammation and 1 (2%) had a hypertrophic scar. During the follow-up, late complications were recorded in 2 (5%) of the 40 patients. A gel was used in 8 patients: in 6 of the 7 patients with residual inflammation, the complication resolved, while in 1, despite therapy, the residual inflammation evolved into hypertrophic scarring. Treatment with the gel in the 2 patients with late lesions reduced the thickness and extent of the lesions, with minimal aesthetic and functional damage.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 16418161 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

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Prevention of motion sickness with rizatriptan: a double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study.

Med Sci Monit. 2006 Jan;12(1):PI1-7

Authors: Marcus DA, Furman JM

BACKGROUND: Serotonergic triptan medications effectively reverse pain and associated symptoms of migraine. Vestibular symptoms, including dizziness and vertigo, occur in about one-third of migraineurs. The most frequent and consistent balance symptom in migraineurs is motion sickness, which is experienced by about half of migraineurs and may be related to serotonergic influences. This double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover pilot study was designed to test the hypothesis that pre-treatment with the serotonin agonist rizatriptan would prevent motion sickness provocation in headache-free migraineurs. MATERIAL/METHODS: Ten healthy adult migraineurs (5 migrainous vertigo and 5 migraine without associated vestibular symptoms) with a history of motion sickness were tested in three sessions: a baseline vestibular battery and two motion sickness provocation sessions two hours following randomly ordered blinded pre-treatment with either oral rizatriptan 10 mg or placebo. Motion sickness was assessed using two standardized questionnaires. RESULTS: Motion sickness scores were lower following pre-treatment with rizatriptan compared with placebo in subjects with migrainous vertigo. Rizatriptan did not affect motion sickness in migraineurs without vertigo. Otolith-ocular reflex sensitivity was reduced following pretreatment with rizatriptan in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first study in humans testing a triptan serotonin agonist as a preventive tool for motion sickness. Rizatriptan prevented the development of motion sickness and severe motion sickness symptoms in patients with migrainous vertigo. These pilot data suggest a possible role for serotonin in the development of motion sickness symptoms in migraineurs with migrainous vertigo.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 16369474 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

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Validation of the M?ni?re's Disease Patient-Oriented Symptom-Severity Index.

Arch Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2005 Oct;131(10):863-7

Authors: Gates GA, Verrall AM

OBJECTIVE: To validate a disease-specific, health-related quality-of-life instrument for people with active, unilateral, cochleovestibular M?ni?re's disease (MD). DESIGN: Prospective, blinded, randomized cohort study using a 16-item instrument, the M?ni?re's Disease Patient-Oriented Symptom-Severity Index (MDPOSI), version 2. SETTING: Four clinical sites, including 3 university hospitals and 1 private practice. PARTICIPANTS: Sixty-one adult participants in a clinical trial of a new treatment modality (the Meniett device) at 4 medical centers. INTERVENTION: The MDPOSI was administered at baseline and at 2 and 4 months after the use of the Meniett device or the placebo. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Each item, domain, and overall MDPOSI score was compared with self-reported cumulative frequency of definitive attacks of vertigo at baseline and 2 and 4 months later. RESULTS: The MDPOSI global score, domain scores, and 13 of 16 items were significantly associated with the frequency of vertigo (gold standard) as noted on the daily symptom report card. CONCLUSIONS: The MDPOSI is a valid and reliable instrument to evaluate the impact of MD on patients' disease-related quality of life, and it is responsive to change in the status of the disorder. The MDPOSI is suitable for use in clinical practice and clinical research in people with MD.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 16230587 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

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The impact of obesity on drug prescribing in primary care.

Br J Gen Pract. 2005 Oct;55(519):743-9

Authors:

BACKGROUND: Healthcare costs attributable to obesity have previously involved estimations based on costs of diseases commonly considered as having obesity as an underlying factor. AIM: To quantify the impact of obesity on total primary care drug prescribing. DESIGN OF STUDY: Review of computer generated and handwritten prescriptions to determine total prescribing volume for all drug classes. SETTING: Twenty-three general practice surgeries in the UK. METHOD: Stratified random selection of 1150 patients who were obese (body mass index [BMI]>30 kg/m(2)) and 1150 age and sex-matched controls of normal weight (BMI 18.5-<25 kg/m(2)). Retrospective review of medical records over an 18-month period. RESULTS: A higher percentage of patients who were obese, compared with those of normal weight, were prescribed at least one drug in the following disease categories: cardiovascular (36% versus 20%), central nervous system (46% versus 35%), endocrine (26% versus 18%), and musculoskeletal and joint disease (30% versus 22%). All of these categories had a P-value of <0.001. Other categories, such as gastrointestinal (24% versus 18%), infections (42% versus 35%), skin (24% versus 19%) had a P-value of <0.01, while respiratory diseases (18% versus 21%) had a P-value of <0.05. Total prescribing volume was significantly higher for the group with obesity and was increased in the region of two- to fourfold in a wide range of prescribing categories: ulcer healing drugs, lipid regulators, beta-adrenoreceptor drugs, drugs affecting the rennin angiotensin system, calcium channel blockers, antibacterial drugs, sulphonylureas, biguanides, non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) (P<0.001) and fibrates, angiotensin II antagonists, and thyroid drugs (P<0.05). The main impact on prescribing volumes is from numbers of patients treated, although in some areas there is an effect from greater dosage or longer treatment in those who are obese including calcium channel blockers, antihistamines, hypnotics, drugs used in the treatment of nausea and vertigo, biguanides, and NSAIDs (P<0.05) reflected in significantly increased defined daily dose prescribing. CONCLUSIONS: This large study of contemporary practice indicates that obesity more than doubled prescribing in most drug categories.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 16212848 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

Vestibular rehabilitation therapy for the dizzy patient.

Ann Acad Med Singapore. 2005 May;34(4):289-94

Authors: Tee LH, Chee NW

A customised vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) programme is an important treatment modality in patients with vestibular dysfunction resulting in motion-provoked vertigo, oscillopsia (gaze instability), disequilibrium and gait disturbances. We discuss in this paper the patient selection criteria for VRT, rehabilitation strategies for unilateral and bilateral vestibular deficits, and some of the compelling evidence to support the use of VRT in treating such patients.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 15937569 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

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Etanercept therapy for immune-mediated cochleovestibular disorders: a multi-center, open-label, pilot study.

Arthritis Rheum. 2005 Jun 15;53(3):337-42

Authors: Matteson EL, Choi HK, Poe DS, Wise C, Lowe VJ, McDonald TJ, Rahman MU

OBJECTIVE: Immune-mediated cochleovestibular disorders (IMCVDs) continue to present a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. Antirheumatic agents, commonly employed for IMCVDs, are associated with variable efficacy and sometimes with serious side effects. The objective of the current study was to preliminarily evaluate the efficacy of etanercept therapy for IMCVD. METHODS: In this open-label prospective pilot study, 23 patients with bilateral IMCVDs or symptoms of bilateral Meniere's disease were treated with etanercept (25 mg twice weekly, by subcutaneous injection) for 24 weeks. All participants showed progressive hearing loss within 3 months prior to the study and responded to prednisone therapy. Hearing improvement was defined as an improvement of sensorineural hearing from baseline, in at least one ear, of 15 dB or more in the pure-tone air conduction thresholds, or an increase of more than 12% in word identification score. When present, vertigo and tinnitus were assessed by frequency and severity of attack and a functional level scale. Limited serial positron emission tomography (PET) of the inner ear region was performed in 5 patients to assess disease activity. RESULTS: There were 12 female (52%) and 11 male patients with a mean age of 48 years. Hearing improved in 7 (30%) patients, was unchanged in 13 (57%), and worsened in 3 (13%). Of 21 patients with tinnitus, this symptom improved in 7 (33%), was unchanged in 10 (48%), and worsened in 3 (13%). Of 16 patients with vertigo, 8 (50%) were improved, 7 (47%) unchanged, and 1 (3%) worse at the end of the study. Etanercept was generally well tolerated. PET was positive on one ear of 2 of 5 patients, remained positive with treatment on 1 of these, and was initially positive in 1 deaf ear, becoming negative at followup. CONCLUSION: These prospective pilot data suggest that etanercept therapy is safe among patients with IMCVDs. However, these data do not suggest substantial efficacy of etanercept among patients with IMCVDs in improving hearing loss. There appeared to be stabilization or improvement of hearing in 87% in this group of patients with pretreatment intractable progressive hearing loss. However, the study endpoint of improvement in 70% of patients was not attained. This short-term effect of possible stabilization requires further study. PET scanning was not useful as a tool to evaluate hearing loss in a limited subset of patients.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 15934127 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

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Strategies to prevent recurrence of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo.

Arch Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2005 Apr;131(4):344-8

Authors: Helminski JO, Janssen I, Kotaspouikis D, Kovacs K, Sheldon P, McQueen K, Hain TC

OBJECTIVE: To determine if a daily routine of Brandt-Daroff exercises increases the time to recurrence and reduces the rate of recurrence of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). DESIGN: Random sample of convenience and retrospective case review. SETTING: Tertiary referral center and outpatient clinic. PATIENTS: One hundred sixteen patients diagnosed with BPPV involving the posterior semicircular canal (BPPV-PC) who were successfully treated with the canalith repositioning procedure. INTERVENTIONS: Patients in the treatment group (n = 43) performed daily Brandt-Daroff exercises, while patients in the no-treatment group (n = 73) performed no exercises. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Follow-up was as long as 2 years. Every 2 months patients were mailed a questionnaire. If BPPV had recurred, patients contacted the principal investigator within 24 hours. Within 1 to 2 weeks, patients were evaluated in the clinic with the Dix-Hallpike maneuver or, if unable to travel to the clinic, interviewed by telephone. RESULTS: Symptoms recurred in 50 (43%) of the 116 subjects, 34 (47%) of 73 in the no-treatment group and 16 (37%) of 43 in the treatment group. There was no significant difference in the frequency of recurrence (Pearson chi(2), P = .33) or time to recurrence (survival analysis, log-rank test, P = .92). A history of recurrent BPPV-PC did not affect frequency of recurrence (Pearson chi(2), P = .33) or time to recurrence (survival analysis, log-rank test, P = .72). CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that a daily routine of Brandt-Daroff exercises does not significantly affect the time to recurrence or the rate of recurrence of BPPV-PC.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 15837905 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

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Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo: clinical characteristics of dizzy patients referred to a Falls and Syncope Unit.

QJM. 2005 May;98(5):357-64

Authors: Lawson J, Johnson I, Bamiou DE, Newton JL

BACKGROUND: Dizziness is a common symptom in older people that affects quality of life and increases the risk of falls. Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is a common cause of dizziness that increases in prevalence with age, and is potentially curable. AIM: To compare patients with BPPV referred initially to a Falls and Syncope Unit (FSS group) with those initially referred to a Regional ENT/Balance Service (ENT group). DESIGN: Retrospective case-note review. METHODS: Medical notes, investigations and outcomes were reviewed for all patients. RESULTS: Of 59 patients with BPPV confirmed by Dix-Hallpike test, 31 (53%) were initially referred to the FSS (2.6 patients per month, 71% females) and 28 (47%) were initially referred to ENT (4.7 patients per month, 86% females). Compared to those referred initially to ENT, FSS patients were significantly older (mean +/- SD 69 +/- 13 vs. 55.4 +/- 13 years, p = 0.0003) and had dizzy symptoms for longer before diagnosis (median (range) 12 (4-120) vs. 6 (1-36) months, p = 0.0273). FSS patients were more likely to have more than one type of dizziness (16% vs. 0%, p = 0.001), more likely to have cerebrovascular or cardiovascular co-morbidity (13% vs. 4%, p = 0.0152) and were taking significantly more medications (3.2 vs. 1.7; p = 0.0271). Cure rates on intervention were similar (83% FSS, 86% ENT). DISCUSSION: BPPV is a potentially curable cause for dizziness in older people. Older people are frequently referred directly to Falls units, who will be seeing increasing numbers of patients with dizziness. A high index of suspicion allows early identification and treatment of this condition.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 15820968 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

Treatment of vertigo.

Am Fam Physician. 2005 Mar 15;71(6):1115-22

Authors: Swartz R, Longwell P

Vertigo is the illusion of motion, usually rotational motion. As patients age, vertigo becomes an increasingly common presenting complaint. The most common causes of this condition are benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, acute vestibular neuronitis or labyrinthitis, M?ni?re's disease, migraine, and anxiety disorders. Less common causes include vertebrobasilar ischemia and retrocochlear tumors. The distinction between peripheral and central vertigo usually can be made clinically and guides management decisions. Most patients with vertigo do not require extensive diagnostic testing and can be treated in the primary care setting. Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo usually improves with a canalith repositioning procedure. Acute vestibular neuronitis or labyrinthitis improves with initial stabilizing measures and a vestibular suppressant medication, followed by vestibular rehabilitation exercises. Meniere's disease often responds to the combination of a low-salt diet and diuretics. Vertiginous migraine headaches generally improve with dietary changes, a tricyclic antidepressant, and a beta blocker or calcium channel blocker. Vertigo associated with anxiety usually responds to a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 15791890 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

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Divalproex sodium in the management of post-herpetic neuralgia: a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study.

QJM. 2005 Jan;98(1):29-34

Authors: Kochar DK, Garg P, Bumb RA, Kochar SK, Mehta RD, Beniwal R, Rawat N

BACKGROUND: Post-herpetic neuralgia is difficult to treat. Divalproex sodium (valproic acid and sodium valproate in molar ratio 1:1) has been used successfully in the management of various painful neuropathies. AIM: To study the effectiveness and safety of divalproex sodium in the management of post-herpetic neuralgia. DESIGN: Randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial. METHODS: We enrolled 48 consecutively attending out-patients with post-herpetic neuralgia, out of whom three were excluded (two had insufficient pain, one withdrew consent). Quantification of pain was by Short Form-McGill pain questionnaire (SF-MPQ), visual analogue scale (VAS), present pain intensity score (PPI) and 11 point Likert scale (11 PLS) at the beginning of the study, after 2 weeks, 4 weeks and at the end of the study (8 weeks). We also assessed patients' global impression of change by questionnaire at the end of the study. RESULTS: After 8 weeks treatment with 1000 mg/day divalproex sodium, there was significant reduction in pain: SF-MPQ, 20.47 +/- 2.29 to 11.90 +/- 6.52 (p < 0.0001); PPI 4.0 +/- 0.52 to 1.95 +/- 1.29 (p < 0.0001); VAS 70.17 +/- 9.21 to 31.27 +/- 29.74 (p < 0.0001) and 11 PLS 6.97 +/- 0.73 to 3.63 +/- 2.34 (p < 0.0001) in comparison to placebo (means +/- SEM). The 'global impression of change' questionnaire showed much or moderate improvement in pain in 58.2% of patients receiving divalproex vs. 14.8% of those receiving placebo. The drug was well tolerated by all patients, except one who developed severe vertigo after 10 days of treatment. DISCUSSION: Divalproex sodium provides significant pain relief in patients of post-herpetic neuralgia, with very little incidence of adverse reactions. These data provide a basis for longer trials in a larger group of patients.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 15625351 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

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Is posttraumatic benign paroxysmal positional vertigo different from the idiopathic form?

Arch Neurol. 2004 Oct;61(10):1590-3

Authors: Gordon CR, Levite R, Joffe V, Gadoth N

BACKGROUND: Although head trauma is considered a common cause of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), clinical presentation and outcome of traumatic BPPV (t-BPPV) have not been systematically evaluated. OBJECTIVES: To compare the clinical presentation, patient's response to physical treatment, and outcome of patients with t-BPPV with those with the idiopathic form (i-BBPV). SETTING: Tertiary referral neuro-otology outpatient clinic. METHODS: We reviewed the clinical records of 247 consecutive patients with posterior canal BPPV during the years 1997 to 2000. All patients were diagnosed using the Dix-Hallpike test and treated using the particle repositioning maneuver. Patients with an onset of positional vertigo within 3 days of well-documented head trauma were included in the t-BPPV group. The outcome was compared with the outcome of 42 patients with i-BPPV who were similarly treated and followed up. RESULTS: Twenty-one (8.5%) of the 247 patients with BPPV fulfilled the diagnostic criteria for t-BPPV. The most common cause of head trauma was motor vehicle crash, documented in 57% of the cases; half of the patients additionally suffered from a whiplash injury. While the other causes were diverse, common falls were predominant. Only 2 of the patients involved in motor vehicle crashes experienced brief loss of consciousness. Sixty-seven percent of patients with t-BPPV required repeated physical treatments for complete resolution of signs and symptoms in comparison to 14% of patients with i-BPPV (P<.001). During a mean +/-SD follow-up of 21.7 +/- 9.7 months, 57% of t-BPPV patients and 19% of i-BPPV controls had recurrent attacks (P<.004). CONCLUSIONS: The nature and severity of the traumas causing t-BPPV are diverse, ranging from minor head injuries to more severe head and neck trauma with brief loss of consciousness. It appears that t-BPPV is more difficult to treat than i-BPPV, and also has a greater tendency to recur.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 15477514 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

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Methylprednisolone, valacyclovir, or the combination for vestibular neuritis.

N Engl J Med. 2004 Jul 22;351(4):354-61

Authors: Strupp M, Zingler VC, Arbusow V, Niklas D, Maag KP, Dieterich M, Bense S, Theil D, Jahn K, Brandt T

BACKGROUND: Vestibular neuritis is the second most common cause of peripheral vestibular vertigo. Its assumed cause is a reactivation of herpes simplex virus type 1 infection. Therefore, corticosteroids, antiviral agents, or a combination of the two might improve the outcome in patients with vestibular neuritis. METHODS: We performed a prospective, randomized, double-blind, two-by-two factorial trial in which patients with acute vestibular neuritis were randomly assigned to treatment with placebo, methylprednisolone, valacyclovir, or methylprednisolone plus valacyclovir. Vestibular function was determined by caloric irrigation, with the use of the vestibular paresis formula (to measure the extent of unilateral caloric paresis) within 3 days after the onset of symptoms and 12 months afterward. RESULTS: Of a total of 141 patients who underwent randomization, 38 received placebo, 35 methylprednisolone, 33 valacyclovir, and 35 methylprednisolone plus valacyclovir. At the onset of symptoms there was no difference among the groups in the severity of vestibular paresis. The mean (+/-SD) improvement in peripheral vestibular function at the 12-month follow-up was 39.6+/-28.1 percentage points in the placebo group, 62.4+/-16.9 percentage points in the methylprednisolone group, 36.0+/-26.7 percentage points in the valacyclovir group, and 59.2+/-24.1 percentage points in the methylprednisolone-plus-valacyclovir group. Analysis of variance showed a significant effect of methylprednisolone (P<0.001) but not of valacyclovir (P=0.43). The combination of methylprednisolone and valacyclovir was not superior to corticosteroid monotherapy. CONCLUSIONS: Methylprednisolone significantly improves the recovery of peripheral vestibular function in patients with vestibular neuritis, whereas valacyclovir does not.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 15269315 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

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Color Doppler imaging of cervicocephalic fibromuscular dysplasia.

Cardiovasc Ultrasound. 2004;2:7

Authors: Arning C, Grzyska U

BACKGROUND: Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) is a possible cause of stroke, especially in middle-aged women. However, only few reports are available on ultrasonographic detection and monitoring. METHODS: Among the 15,000 patients who underwent color Doppler imaging (CDI) of the cervicocephalic arteries during the study period, all cases fulfilling ultrasound criteria of FMD were included into the case series. Criteria of FMD were: 1. Segmental string-of-beads pattern, 2. Localization in the distal extracranial part of internal carotid artery (ICA) or vertebral artery (VA), and 3. (optional): Direct and/or indirect criteria of stenosis. RESULTS: CDI detected FMD in 39 vessels (37 ICA and 2 VA segments) of 21 patients. 16 patients had bilateral manifestation on ICA, one of those also on VA, bilaterally. CDI disclosed 4 symptomatic high-grade ICA stenoses, 3 of them underwent endovascular treatment. 5 patients with moderate symptomatic ICA stenoses got medical treatment. In 6 patients FMD was the most likely cause of headache and in one patient FMD was diagnosed as a cause of vertigo. CONCLUSIONS: CDI may be used for detection of cervicocephalic FMD. Due to the unfavourable localisation of FMD for CDI, the sensitivity of CDI is lower in comparison to angiography. However, high-grade FMD stenoses that require invasive treatment can be recognized on the basis of indirect hemodynamic criteria.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 15265239 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

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The effects of transtympanic micropressure treatment in people with unilateral Meniere's disease.

Arch Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2004 Jun;130(6):718-25

Authors: Gates GA, Green JD, Tucci DL, Telian SA

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of a portable low-intensity alternating pressure generator, the Meniett device, in controlling the symptoms of M?ni?re's disease. DESIGN: A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, multicenter clinical trial of 4 months' duration. SETTING: Four study sites: 3 academic medical centers and 1 private practice. PATIENTS: Sixty-seven people aged 33 to 71 years with established, active, unilateral cochleovestibular M?ni?re's disease randomly assigned to a treatment or control group. Five cases were excluded (2 dropouts, 3 protocol violations), leaving 62 evaluable cases. INTERVENTION: The Meniett device was self-administered 3 times daily. The placebo Meniett device was identical but exerted no pressure. All participants had a tympanostomy tube inserted in the affected ear. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Participants rated vertigo and activity each day on a symptom report card. Hearing tests, electrocochleography, and questionnaires were completed at baseline, 2 months, and 4 months. RESULTS: The treatment group experienced significantly less severe vertigo, fewer days with definitive vertigo, and fewer days lost from work (sick days) during the follow-up period than did the control group. Hearing and electrocochleographic results did not differ between the groups. Outcomes did not differ by age, gender, laterality, or duration of symptoms. Outcomes were affected by vestibular loss and baseline level of vertigo. The tympanostomy tube had no short-term effect on vertigo symptoms. There were no complications from using the Meniett device. CONCLUSION: The Meniett device is a minimally invasive, safe, and efficacious intermediate treatment for people with substantial vertigo uncontrolled by medical therapy.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 15210552 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

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Differences in diffusion-weighted and T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging findings in the acute and chronic stages of ischemic cerebrovascular disease--two case reports.

Neurol Med Chir (Tokyo). 2004 May;44(5):245-8

Authors: Yamamoto J, Nishizawa S, Yamaguchi M, Akamine S, Tokuyama T, Sugiyama K, Namba H

A 71-year-old man presented with sudden onset of vertigo and a 77-year-old man suffered consciousness disturbance. Diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance (MR) imaging on admission showed hyperintense areas in the left cerebellar hemisphere in the first patient and in the brainstem in the second patient. Both patients were treated with argatroban and edaravone, and the neurological deficits markedly improved one month after admission. T2-weighted MR imaging one month after the onset showed much smaller hyperintense areas compared with the findings on admission in both patients. These results indicate that findings of hyperintense areas by diffusion-weighted MR imaging in the acute stage of ischemic cerebrovascular disease indicate not only the ischemic core but also parts of the reversible incomplete ischemic lesion and suggest that intensive treatment in the acute stage might reverse ischemic brain damage in some patients.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 15200059 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

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Persistent vertigo following particle repositioning maneuvers: an analysis of causes.

Arch Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2004 Apr;130(4):436-9

Authors: Rupa V

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the causes of persistent vertigo following treatment with particle repositioning maneuvers (PRMs) in patients with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. DESIGN: Prospective study of outcomes in patients with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. STUDY SETTING: Outpatient clinic of a tertiary care referral center. PATIENTS: A sample of 90 consecutive patients with documented benign paroxysmal positional vertigo of the posterior semicircular canal who had persistent vertigo after at least 3 sessions of PRMs during a period of 2 weeks. INTERVENTION: Particle repositioning using a modified Epley maneuver. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: Persistent vertigo following at least 3 sessions of PRMs over a period of 2 weeks. RESULTS: Seven patients showed partial or no improvement following treatment. The causes subsequently determined included coincident horizontal canal positional vertigo (2 cases), M?ni?re's disease (2 cases), persistent posterior canal benign paroxysmal positional vertigo in association with cervical spondylosis (2 cases), and a posterior fossa meningioma (1 case). CONCLUSIONS: Patients with persistent or frequently recurring positional vertigo following treatment with PRMs should undergo detailed investigation to exclude coincidental pathology for which specific treatment is required. In patients in whom no coincident pathology requiring therapy is identified, treatment options other than the PRM already instituted should be considered.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 15096426 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

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Treatment of anterior canal benign paroxysmal positional vertigo by a prolonged forced position procedure.

J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry. 2004 May;75(5):779-81

Authors: Crevits L

This report presents a therapeutic procedure for refractory benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (antBPPV) of the anterior canal. Two patients with refractory antBPPV were treated by a prolonged forced position procedure (PFPP). The technique is based on the assumption that the pathophysiological mechanism of antBPPV is similar to that generating posterior canal canalolithiasis. The patients recovered from refractory antBPPV after one or more PFPPs. The rationale for this therapy is that when the patient lies in the proposed forced position, the affected anterior canal is uppermost in an almost gravitationally vertical position. If the patient remains in this position for several hours, the floating particles lying in the non-ampullary arm of the canal can gradually slip out of the canal towards the vestibule due to gravity. We recommend trying PFPP when the side of lithiasis cannot be determined, in cases that are resistant to particle repositioning canal manoeuvres, and before considering canal plugging for refractory antBPPV.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 15090581 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

Paralytic complications of puffer fish (tetrodotoxin) poisoning.

Singapore Med J. 2004 Feb;45(2):73-4

Authors: Ahasan HA, Mamun AA, Karim SR, Bakar MA, Gazi EA, Bala CS

INTRODUCTION: Puffer fish is available in Bangladesh and is occasionally eaten by some people. Ignorance regarding its proper cooking process may lead to serious health hazards, including fatality. METHODS: An unusual catastrophic event happened recently in Khulna, Bangladesh that drew nationwide attention. Eight families were affected. RESULTS: Thirty-seven patients were admitted with a history of consumption of puffer fish. Peri-oral paraesthesia (24), weakness of both lower limbs (22), paraesthesia all over the body (18), headache (15), difficulty in respiration (14), nausea and vomiting (8), blurring of vision (7), and vertigo (6) were common clinical presentations. Twenty-two patients developed ascending paralysis of limbs and involved the respiratory muscles in 17 patients. Eight patients died due to respiratory failure while the rest improved. CONCLUSION: Health personnel should have sufficient knowledge regarding the clinical manifestations, complications and management of puffer fish poisoning. During its preparation, organs that contain the highest level of tetrodotoxin should be removed. Since there is no specific treatment, people should be made aware of the potential risk of eating puffer fish, about the warning symptoms and signs of puffer fish poisoning, and when to seek medical help.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 14985845 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

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Heralding manifestations of basilar artery occlusion with lethal or severe stroke.

J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry. 2003 Dec;74(12):1621-6

Authors: von Campe G, Regli F, Bogousslavsky J

BACKGROUND: Basilar artery occlusion usually causes severe disability or death. Until the recent developments in local intra-arterial or systemic intravenous fibrinolysis, interest in early diagnosis was low because there was no satisfactory treatment. Thus there is little information about the initial phase of the disease. OBJECTIVE: To report on the early clinical features and patterns of evolution of severe symptomatic basilar artery occlusion. METHODS: 24 patients with established basilar artery occlusion (confirmed by angiography or at necropsy) were reviewed retrospectively, focusing on the early clinical aspects and time course of the disease. RESULTS: The most common initial symptoms were motor deficits (16/24, including facial palsies), articulatory speech difficulties (15/24), vertigo, nausea or vomiting (13/24), and headaches (10/24). The most frequent objective initial findings were motor deficits (22/24), facial palsies (19/24), eye movement abnormalities (15/24), lower cranial nerve deficits (15/24), altered level of consciousness (12/24), and bilateral extensor plantar responses (9/24). Onset of the disease was gradual in nearly all patients and in half the warning signs were present for up to two months before the final stage. Headaches and visual disturbances were early signs, while speech difficulties and motor deficits were late signs. Once permanent neurological deficits were present, the final illness was reached within six hours in 41%, between six and 24 hours in 32%, and in two to three days in 27%. CONCLUSIONS: All the patients reviewed presented some symptoms and signs pointing to brain stem involvement. Only 8% (2/24) had an acute course with no adequate warning signs.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 14638878 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

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Cutis verticis gyrata.

Dermatol Online J. 2003 Oct;9(4):32

Authors: Nguyen NQ

An 82-year-old man had deep, linear skin folds on the scalp. The patient did not have a history of neuropsychiatric disorders and was generally in good health except for diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and benign positional vertigo. Cutis verticis gyrata is a term used to describe the appearance of deep, linear skin folds in the scalp. Primary and secondary types of this condition exist. No treatment is typically needed, although surgical modalities may be beneficial for severely disfiguring types.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 14594605 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

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Familial idiopathic intracranial hypertension.

Croat Med J. 2003 Aug;44(4):480-4

Authors: Karaman K, Gverovi?-Antunica A, Zuljan I, Vukojevi? N, Zoltner B, Erceg I, Ivkosi? A

AIM: To analyze the development and occurrence of the idiopathic intracranial hypertension and consequent visual loss in a family affected with idiopathic intracranial hypertension. METHODS: We studied 15 members of the same family and found six of them affected with idiopathic intracranial hypertension, which was accompanied with visual loss as a repercussion of the disease. Idiopathic intracranial hypertension was diagnosed on neurological and radiological examination. Visual examination to establish visual loss included fundoscopy, visual acuity, visual field testing, and ultrasonography of the optic nerve. RESULTS: The construction of a family tree and detailed examination of 15 family members revealed idiopathic intracranial hypertension with visual disturbances, even amaurosis, and different stages of visual field constriction in three members of the family: the mother and her two daughters. Due to the symptoms of idiopathic intracranial hypertension, such as headaches, nausea, vertigo, and the presence of transient visual obscuration and papilledema, in three other members of this family (aged 16, 17, and 25 years), we considered a presumptive diagnosis of idiopathic intracranial hypertension, and the need for thorough follow-up. Medical data on the family grandmother, who died 34 years ago, suggested that she also had symptoms of idiopathic intracranial hypertension. One of the patients underwent surgical treatment by a lumbo-peritoneal shunt operation worsening of the symptoms. CONCLUSION: It is very important to include idiopathic intracranial hypertension in differential diagnosis of papilledema and recognize it in early stages to prevent vision loss. Current successful therapeutic approaches and close follow-up of such patients require teamwork of neurologists, ophthalmologists, and neurosurgeons.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 12950154 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

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Efficacy of the Semont maneuver in benign paroxysmal positional vertigo.

Arch Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2003 Jun;129(6):629-33

Authors: Levrat E, van Melle G, Monnier P, Maire R

OBJECTIVES: To assess the efficacy of the Semont maneuver in the treatment of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) of the posterior semicircular canal and to evaluate the possible effect of various factors on the efficacy of this maneuver. DESIGN AND SETTING: Retrospective study in an outpatient clinic. PATIENTS: Two hundred seventy-eight patients presenting with symptomatic, unilateral BPPV of the posterior semicircular canal, exclusively treated with the Semont maneuver. INTERVENTIONS: During the first consultation, each patient was treated with a Semont maneuver. When BPPV persisted, this maneuver was repeated during follow-up visits, performed at weekly intervals. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Patients were considered cured when vertigo disappeared within 30 days (allowing up to 4 maneuvers). RESULTS: More than 90% of patients were cured after a maximum of 4 maneuvers, and 83.5% were cured after only 2 maneuvers. The efficacy of the maneuver decreased each time it was repeated (from 62.6% at the first maneuver to 18.2% at the fourth). The duration of symptoms before initial consultation and the etiology of BPPV had a significant effect on the maneuver's efficacy (P<.001 and P =.002, respectively), whereas age (P =.12), sex (P =.06), and affected side (P =.20) had no effect. CONCLUSIONS: The Semont maneuver demonstrated a 90.3% cure rate after a maximum of 4 sessions. Patients consulting late (>6 months after the beginning of symptoms) or having traumatic BPPV had lower recovery rates than patients without these factors (74.7% vs 96.5%).

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 12810466 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

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Postoperative sudden sensorineural hearing loss after posterior lumbar decompression: a case report.

Can J Anaesth. 2003 May;50(5):519-21

Authors: Mak PH, Tumber PS

PURPOSE: We report a case in which a patient sustained a dural tear during spinal surgery under general anesthesia complicated by a severe and persistent unilateral sensorineural hearing loss. CLINICAL FINDINGS: A 51-yr-old man with no previous otological history underwent a posterior lumbar decompression surgery in the prone position under general anesthesia. A small dural tear was discovered intra-operatively and was repaired by sutures. Surgery lasted for eight hours with over 3 L of blood loss. Recovery from anesthesia was otherwise uneventful. A unilateral right-sided sensorineural hearing loss was discovered shortly after completion of surgery. This was associated with mild tinnitus but no vertigo. There was no aural fullness, pain, headache or postural element to his symptoms. Despite extensive investigations, treatment and follow-up by an otorhinolaryngologist, his symptoms failed to improve 18 months following surgery. DISCUSSION: The possible etiologies, preventive strategies, prognosis and management plan of this rare complication are discussed.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 12734165 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

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Torture and its neurological sequelae.

Spinal Cord. 2002 May;40(5):213-23

Authors: Moreno A, Grodin MA

BACKGROUND: Refugees and asylum seekers continue to enter the United States and the European Union in record numbers. Some have estimated that between 5-35% of all refugees have suffered torture in their countries of origin. Although general practitioners and specialized physicians are likely to encounter victims of torture as patients, few providers are familiar with the health problems that may affect this patient population. PURPOSE: :To provide neurologists, neurosurgeons, and rehabilitation medicine physicians with basic knowledge about survivors of torture that can help in the diagnosis, treatment, and referral of such patients. METHODS: A MEDLINE (1966-October 2001) search using keywords torture and sequelae (nervous system diseases and brain injuries) was conducted. Other data sources included books, reference lists, online resources and expert opinion. FINDINGS: :Forms of torture that may affect the nervous system include beatings, gunshot wounds, stab wounds, asphyxiation, prolonged suspension and electrocution. Victims of torture commonly experience neurological symptoms such as headaches, vertigo, loss of consciousness and dizziness during and after torture. A successful and meaningful clinical interaction with a survivor of torture includes avoiding retraumatization, building trust, spelling out any limits on confidentiality, and above anything else, establishing empathy with the patient. CONCLUSIONS: Neurological sequelae of torture can be devastating physically and psychologically. The treatment of these neurological conditions does not differ from other patient populations. However, the clinical approach is unique and must focus on avoiding retraumatization and helping the victim reintegrate into society as quickly as possible.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 11987003 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

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Double-blind controlled trial of gamma-hydroxybutyrate and clomethiazole in the treatment of alcohol withdrawal.

Alcohol Alcohol. 2002 Jan-Feb;37(1):67-73

Authors: Nimmerrichter AA, Walter H, Gutierrez-Lobos KE, Lesch OM

The aim of this double-blind, comparative study was to assess the efficacy and safety of gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) in ameliorating the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. Newly admitted alcohol-dependent patients (n = 98) were randomized to receive either clomethiazole 1000 mg daily (CLO group) (n = 33), or 50 mg GHB/kg body wt (n = 33) or 100 mg GHB/kg body wt (n = 32). This dose was administered for 5 days, halved on day 6, and on days 7 and 8 only placebo was given. As CLO is available as capsules and GHB as syrup, a double-dummy method was used to try to ensure blindness. The groups were matched in terms of baseline demographic and alcohol-related variables. There was no difference between the three treatments in ratings of alcohol withdrawal symptoms nor requests for additional medication. After tapering off the active medication, there was no increase in withdrawal symptoms, indicating that physical tolerance did not develop to either GHB or CLO within the 5-day treatment period. The most frequently reported side-effect of GHB was transient vertigo, particularly after the evening double dose.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 11825860 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

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Ramsay Hunt syndrome.

J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry. 2001 Aug;71(2):149-54

Authors: Sweeney CJ, Gilden DH

The strict definition of the Ramsay Hunt syndrome is peripheral facial nerve palsy accompanied by an erythematous vesicular rash on the ear (zoster oticus) or in the mouth. J Ramsay Hunt, who described various clinical presentations of facial paralysis and rash, also recognised other frequent symptoms and signs such as tinnitus, hearing loss, nausea, vomiting, vertigo, and nystagmus. He explained these eighth nerve features by the close proximity of the geniculate ganglion to the vestibulocochlear nerve within the bony facial canal. Hunt's analysis of clinical variations of the syndrome now bearing his name led to his recognition of the general somatic sensory function of the facial nerve and his defining of the geniculate zone of the ear. It is now known that varicella zoster virus (VZV) causes Ramsay Hunt syndrome. Compared with Bell's palsy (facial paralysis without rash), patients with Ramsay Hunt syndrome often have more severe paralysis at onset and are less likely to recover completely. Studies suggest that treatment with prednisone and acyclovir may improve outcome, although a prospective randomised treatment trial remains to be undertaken. In the only prospective study of patients with Ramsay Hunt syndrome, 14% developed vesicles after the onset of facial weakness. Thus, Ramsay Hunt syndrome may initially be indistinguishable from Bell's palsy. Further, Bell's palsy is significantly associated with herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection. In the light of the known safety and effectiveness of antiviral drugs against VZV or HSV, consideration should be given to early treatment of all patients with Ramsay Hunt syndrome or Bell's palsy with a 7-10 day course of famciclovir (500 mg, three times daily) or acyclovir (800 mg, five times daily), as well as oral prednisone (60 mg daily for 3-5 days). Finally, some patients develop peripheral facial paralysis without ear or mouth rash, associated with either a fourfold rise in antibody to VZV or the presence of VZV DNA in auricular skin, blood mononuclear cells, middle ear fluid, or saliva. This indicates that a proportion of patients with "Bell's palsy" have Ramsay Hunt syndrome zoster sine herpete. Treatment of these patients with acyclovir and prednisone within 7 days of onset has been shown to improve the outcome of recovery from facial palsy.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 11459884 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

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Possible estuary-associated syndrome: symptoms, vision, and treatment.

Environ Health Perspect. 2001 May;109(5):539-45

Authors: Shoemaker RC, Hudnell HK

The human illness designated as possible estuarine-associated syndrome (PEAS) by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has been associated with exposure to estuaries inhabited by toxin-forming dinoflagellates, including members of the fish-killing toxic Pfiesteria complex (TPC), Pfiesteria piscicida and Pfiesteria shumwayae. Humans may be exposed through direct contact with estuarine water or by inhalation of aerosolized or volatilized toxin(s). The five cases reported here demonstrate the full spectrum of symptoms experienced during acute and chronic stages of this suspected neurotoxin-mediated illness. The nonspecific symptoms most commonly reported are cough, secretory diarrhea, headache, fatigue, memory impairment, rash, difficulty in concentrating, light sensitivity, burning skin upon water contact, muscle ache, and abdominal pain. Less frequently encountered symptoms are upper airway obstruction, shortness of breath, confusion, red or tearing eyes, weakness, and vertigo. Some patients experience as few as four of these symptoms. The discovery that an indicator of visual pattern-detection ability, visual contrast sensitivity (VCS), is sharply reduced in affected individuals has provided an objective indicator that is useful in diagnosing and monitoring PEAS. VCS deficits are present in both acute and chronic PEAS, and VCS recovers during cholestyramine treatment coincident with symptom abatement. Although PEAS cannot yet be definitively associated with TPC exposure, resolution with cholestyramine treatment suggests a neurotoxin-mediated illness.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 11401768 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

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Open trial of methotrexate as treatment for autoimmune hearing loss.

Arthritis Rheum. 2001 Apr;45(2):146-50

Authors: Matteson EL, Fabry DA, Facer GW, Beatty CW, Driscoll CL, Strome SE, McDonald TJ

OBJECTIVE: To assess the efficacy of low-dose methotrexate (MTX) administered for the treatment of autoimmune hearing loss. METHODS: This was a prospective, 12-month, open-label study of 17 patients with refractory autoimmune hearing loss. All patients had ongoing episodic worsening of hearing in one or both ears prior to enrollment despite traditional medical therapy. The MTX dose was 7.5-25 mg/week. Hearing loss and vertigo were evaluated at baseline and at completion of the study. Hearing improvement was defined as an improvement in pure tone threshold (PT) average of >10 dB or an increase in speech discrimination (SD) of >15%; worsening was defined as a decrease of >10 dB in PT or a decrease of >15% in SD in at least one ear. RESULTS: MTX was well tolerated. Among patients with Meniere's disease, 5 of 9 had improvement or resolution of vertigo. Equilibrium improved in all 3 patients with Cogan's syndrome and improved in 2 out of 3 patients with idiopathic hearing loss and this symptom. According to the parameters defined above, hearing improved in 11 patients (65%), was unchanged in 4 patients (23%), and worsened in 2 patients (12%). CONCLUSION: Long-term low-dose MTX therapy may be a useful therapy for at least some patients who have hearing loss with a presumptively autoimmune-mediated component that is refractory to traditional therapies.

PMID: re Treatment of vertigo 11324778 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE re Treatment of vertigo ]

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Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor discontinuation syndrome: proposed diagnostic criteria.

J Psychiatry Neurosci. 2000 May;25(3):255-61

Authors: Black K, Shea C, Dursun S, Kutcher S

OBJECTIVE: To establish specific criteria by which selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) discontinuation syndrome may be identified. DATA SOURCES: MEDLINE and PSYCHLIT databases were searched for case reports published from 1986 to 1997 inclusive, and references of relevant articles were also searched. STUDY SELECTION: Forty-six case reports of symptoms following the discontinuation of fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, paroxetine or sertraline were selected. Three studies of SSRI discontinuation were also reviewed. DATA EXTRACTION: Demographic and treatment information, as well as the timing, duration, number, nature and frequency of dicontinuation symptoms. DATA SYNTHESIS: Paroxetine was most frequently implicated. The drug had been tapered in half of the cases. In some cases, symptom onset began during taper, whereas, in most cases, symptoms began within 1 to 3 days of drug discontinuation. Fifty-three different symptoms were reported, with dizziness being the most common. Other common symptoms were nausea or emesis, fatigue, headache, gait instability and insomnia. Shock-like sensations, paresthesia and visual disturbances were the most rare. Without intervention, symptoms persisted for more than a week in half of the cases. In cases in which the SSRI was restarted, symptoms resolved within 72 hours. In some cases, withdrawal symptoms recurred when the same SSRI was again discontinued. CONCLUSIONS: Findings were used to construct diagnostic criteria for the SSRI discontinuation