Development of the vestibular system and balance function: differential diagnosis in the pediatric population

Otolaryngol Clin North Am. 2011 Apr;44(2):251-71, vii. doi: 10.1016/j.otc.2011.01.001.

Abstract

Dizziness is a rare complaint among children. In this article, the authors present the embryology and development of the vestibular system, and offer a rational approach to taking a careful history and ordering and interpreting appropriate vestibular and balance testing in children. A differential diagnosis is presented, so that the likely cause of the balance disorder can be elucidated even in the most complex pediatric patients.

MeSH terms

  • Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo
  • Child
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Ear, Inner / embryology
  • Humans
  • Physical Examination
  • Postural Balance / physiology*
  • Proprioception / physiology
  • Reflex, Vestibulo-Ocular / physiology
  • Vertigo / diagnosis*
  • Vertigo / physiopathology*
  • Vestibular Evoked Myogenic Potentials / physiology
  • Vestibule, Labyrinth / innervation
  • Vestibule, Labyrinth / physiology*
  • Vestibule, Labyrinth / physiopathology