Vestibular migraine and benign paroxysmal positional vertigo,close presentation dilemma

Abstract

Background: Not only an association between benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) and migraine have been recognized in the literature, but also, there are close similarities between BPPV and vestibular migraine (VM) presentations as both can be presented by very similar positional nystagmus.

Aims/objectives: To prescribe relatively uncommon cases of positional nystagmus caused by VM that mimics positioning nystagmus of BPPV.

Material and method: 12 patients were reviewed retrospectively in this study. All were subjected to full history taking, videonystagmography testing (VNG) and brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with contrast. Provisionally, they were diagnosed with BPPV. After three attempts of repositioning sessions none of them improved. After exclusion of central insults using brain MRI, trial of anti-migraine medical treatment (50-100 Topiramate tablets once per day) for at least one month was prescribed to them.

Results: 10 patients were completely cured on medical treatment and finally were diagnosed VM. Only 2 patients did not improve on medical treatment (for one month), were managed again by repeated repositioning maneuvers till finally improved and were diagnosed as resistant BPPV.

Conclusions/significance: VM positional nystagmus can mimic BPPV nystagmus in some patients.