Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo F063

Current RMA Instruments

SOP bulletin information on new Instruments

ICD Coding:

• ICD-9-CM Codes: 386.11.
• ICD-10-AM Codes: H81.1.

Brief description

This condition is an inner ear disorder that causes recurrent brief periods of dizziness or a sensation of spinning, brought on by movements of the head.  There may be associated nausea and vomiting.

Confirming the diagnosis

This diagnosis is made clinically based on the history and findings on examination, including the response to provoking manoeuvers or repositioning manoeuvers (specific head movements).  Imaging is generally not required.

The relevant medical specialist is an Ear, Nose and Throat surgeon or a neurologist.

Additional diagnoses that are covered by SOP

• Benign positional vertigo
• Paroxysmal postional vertigo
• Vestibular lithiasis

Conditions that are excluded from SOP

• Labyrinthitis^#
• Menieres disease*

* another SOP applies

^# non-SOP condition

Clinical onset

Clinical onset will be at the time of the first onset of the characteristic symptoms.  Onset is usually later in life, typically in persons > 50 years old, but the condition can occur at a younger age.

Clinical worsening

The condition is generally responsive to treatment.  Symptoms generally resolve over days or weeks although rarely, can persist for years.  Recurrent episodes may occur over subsequent years as part of the natural history of the condition. Clinical worsening is unlikley but may be evidenced by a increase in the frequency or severity of attacks.