Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome in Children
G. Ben-Amitay, Y. Nevo, D. Lieberman, R. Mester, S. Harel
Ness Ziona Mental Health Center, Institute for Child Development and Pediatric Neurology Unit, Tel Aviv-Sourasky Medical Center, and Tel Aviv University Medical School
Cyclic vomiting syndrome in children is a manifestation of various etiologies, including gastroenterological and renal disorders, central and autonomic nervous system abnormalities, as well as metabolic and endocrine dysfunction. Frequently no organic cause is found. Personality profiles of children with cyclic vomiting reveal perfectionism, competitiveness, and aggressive behavior. Vomiting attacks have been induced by anxiety and excitement in patients with cyclic vomiting. We describe an 8-year-old girl with cyclic vomiting, frequently associated with occipital headaches, photophobia or dizziness. Psychiatric evaluation indicated a generalized anxiety disorder.