T.I.A. of Brainstem / Cerebellum (as cause of Vertigo)

Whom to Work-Up for Recent Hx of Vertigo (which has resolved)

**  Abnormal Neuro Exam
  • Cranial Nerves
  • Cerebellar function
**  History of other simultaneous Vertebro-Basilar / Cerebellar Symptoms
  • diplopia, dysarthria, dysphagia
  • ataxia, dyscoordination
** Multiple Stroke Risk-Factors:
  • Age >60, HT, Diabetes
  • Connective tissue disorder

Work-Up

**  MRI Brain
  • To R/O a completed Stroke
**  MR or CT Angiogram
  • Head and Neck
  • r/o Vertebral Artery insufficiency
NOT carotid ultrasound
  • Vertigo is posterior circulation Sx

Management of Vertebro-Basilar TIAs

**  Risk Factor reduction

**  Patient Education
  • Call 911 at first sign of Sx
  • If patient collapses, 911 to take to nearest Stroke Center [not a mere ER]

See posting Vertigo – 1.