Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is a common cause of vertigo, especially in the elderly. It is characterized by brief attacks of positional vertigo and nystagmus triggered by rapid changes in head position with respect to gravity. The pathophysiology is due to movement of debris within the semicircular canal causing abnormal stimulation, most commonly in the posterior semicircular canal. Diagnosis of typical BPPV can be made at the bedside by observing the characteristic positional nystagmus associated with stimulation of the particular semicircular canal. Particle repositioning maneuver effectively treats BPPV, although recurrence does occur.