The role of low levels of vitamin D as a co-factor in the relapse of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)

Abstract

Background: Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo is characterized as brief episodes of vertigo that are exacerbated by the unexpected act of moving to a current provoking location. It is thought to be an otoconia-related balance disorder. Our objectives were to assess the serum concentrations of vitamin D and calcium (total and ionized) in cases with BPPV, determine if low vitamin D levels were regarded as a cause for BPPV relapse, and determine whether vitamin D supplementation would minimize the risk of BPPV relapse.

Results: Sixty cases with BPPV were included in the study; 53 cases had posterior canal BPPV, while seven had lateral canal BPPV. Canalithiasis was the most common type of BPPV pathology. Forty cases had abnormally low levels of vitamin D. There was a statistically significant positive correlation between the mean vitamin D assay for all cases with BPPV and serum calcium. There was statistically significant difference in comparing the relapse of BPPV for group that receive vitamin D after one year follow up.

Conclusion: Abnormal vitamin D levels were linked with the incident and relapse of BPPV. Correction of low vitamin D levels was linked with the reduction of the relapse of BPPV.

Keywords: BPPV relapse; Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo; Vitamin D deficiency.