Differential Diagnosis for Cervicogenic Dizziness in a Middle-Aged Man
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Cervicogenic dizziness: This condition is caused by mechanical dysfunction of the cervical spine, leading to symptoms of dizziness or vertigo. It is a common cause of dizziness in middle-aged individuals and is often associated with neck pain or stiffness.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV): A vestibular disorder that causes brief, intense episodes of vertigo triggered by specific head movements. It is a common cause of dizziness in adults and can be related to cervical spine issues.
- Vestibular migraine: A condition characterized by recurrent episodes of vertigo, often accompanied by headache, sensitivity to light and sound, and other migraine symptoms. It can be triggered by cervical spine dysfunction.
- Orthostatic hypotension: A condition where blood pressure drops when standing up, leading to dizziness or lightheadedness. It can be related to various factors, including dehydration, medication, or autonomic nervous system dysfunction.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Vertebral artery dissection: A serious condition where the inner lining of the vertebral artery tears, potentially leading to stroke or other complications. It can cause dizziness, neck pain, and other symptoms.
- Cervical spine fracture or instability: A condition where the cervical spine is unstable or fractured, potentially causing dizziness, neck pain, and other neurological symptoms.
- Multiple sclerosis: A chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system, potentially causing dizziness, vertigo, and other neurological symptoms.
Rare Diagnoses
- Chiari malformation: A rare condition where the cerebellum extends into the spinal canal, potentially causing dizziness, vertigo, and other neurological symptoms.
- Cervical spine tumor or cyst: A rare condition where a tumor or cyst develops in the cervical spine, potentially causing dizziness, neck pain, and other neurological symptoms.
- Ehlers-Danlos syndrome: A rare genetic disorder that affects connective tissue, potentially causing joint hypermobility, skin hyperextensibility, and other symptoms, including dizziness and vertigo.