Recurrent vestibulopathy: natural course and prognostic factors.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the natural course of recurrent vestibulopathy.

STUDY

DESIGN

Retrospective analysis.

PATIENTS: One hundred and five adult patients with attacks of vertigo without auditory or neurological symptoms.

METHODS

A structured interview was conducted over the telephone, 12 to 62 months after the patient's first visit to the out-patient department.

RESULTS

Two-thirds of patients experienced spontaneous resolution of vertigo, while one-third continued to have symptoms. The diagnosis was subsequently changed to migraine in 2 per cent of patients and to Ménière's disease in 1 per cent.

CONCLUSION

The prognosis for patients with recurrent vestibulopathy is good. In a few cases, the diagnosis is provisional and will be subsequently changed to migraine or Ménière's disease.