ISSN : 2663-2187

Neurological and Vestibular evaluation of dizzy children

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Youstina Adel Abdelmalak Attia1, Ahmed Mohamed El-sayed Khater, Wafaa Samir Mohamed Hassan, Nahla Hassan Ahmed Gad
ยป doi: 10.33472/AFJBS.6.2.2024.634-649

Abstract

Dizziness is a general nonspecific term used to describe many different sensations, including unsteadiness, imbalance, clumsiness, lightheadedness and vertigo. Dizziness is not an uncommon complaint in children with prevalence that ranges from 0.45 to 15%. Childhood vestibular deficits may present as visual disturbance, headache, unsteady gait, motor delay or learning disability and may result in delayed postural control, episodic vertigo, lack of coordination, and the development of paroxysmal head tilt in young children. Evaluation of patients presenting with dizziness begins with a detailed history, neurological examination, audio-vestibular and radiologic testing which are important in establishing a definitive diagnosis. During a detailed neurologic evaluation, the physician must examine the head, face, spine and extremities for abnormalities, malformations and dysmorphic appearances and assess the mental status, the integrity of the cranial nerves, the motor system, the reflexes, the sensory system as well as the coordination and gait of the patient. Findings suggestive of a central cause of dizziness should consider Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) or Computed Tomographic (CT). Surface electroencephalography (EEG) is a useful electrophysiological investigation for evaluating a paroxysmal event in children. Also, for assessment of vestibular system function, there are several tests but VNG play a major role in diagnosis of dizziness. A dizzy child questionnaire was developed in the light of a good knowledge of causes of childhood dizziness and with the help of previously validated questionnaires which was filled through an interview with all parents of dizzy children as well as the children themselves whenever possible

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