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Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

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EasyAmbulatory Medicine / Primary CareBenign paroxysmal positional vertigoUSMLE Step 3

A 70-year-old man reports brief episodes of vertigo triggered by rolling over in bed. Each episode lasts less than 1 minute. Hearing is normal, and neurologic examination is normal. Dix-Hallpike maneuver causes torsional nystagmus after a short latency. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

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Correct answer: E — Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo

Brief positional vertigo with latency and torsional nystagmus on Dix-Hallpike testing indicates benign paroxysmal positional vertigo.

Reference: AAO-HNS benign paroxysmal positional vertigo guideline; USMLE Step 3 Content Outline