Cyclic vomiting syndrome: diagnostic approach and current management strategies

• Main Authors: Hayes WJ, VanGilder D, Berendse J, Lemon MD, Kappes JA
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Dove Medical Press 2018-02-01
• Series: Clinical and Experimental Gastroenterology
• Subjects: cyclic vomiting syndrome; emesis; hyperemesis; vomiting
• Online Access: https://www.dovepress.com/cyclic-vomiting-syndrome-diagnostic-approach-and-current-management-st-peer-reviewed-article-CEG

William J Hayes,1 Deidra VanGilder,2 Joseph Berendse,3 Michael D Lemon,3 John A Kappes4 1Department of Pharmacy Practice, South Dakota State University, Regional Health Medical Clinic, Rapid City, SD, USA; 2South Dakota State University, College of Pharmacy and Allied Health Professions, Brown Clinic, Watertown, SD, USA; 3Department of Pharmacy Practice, South Dakota State University, College of Pharmacy and Allied Health Professions, VA Black Hills Health Care System, Fort Meade, SD, USA; 4Department of Pharmacy Practice, South Dakota State University, College of Pharmacy and Allied Health Professions, Rapid City Regional Hospital, Rapid City, SD, USA Abstract: Cyclic vomiting syndrome (CVS) is a disorder characterized by episodes of nausea and vomiting lasting for 1–5 days followed by asymptomatic periods. The etiology of CVS is unknown, but it shares similar characteristics to migraine headaches. CVS is generally classified as having four phases: prodromal, acute/vomiting/hyperemesis, recovery, and remission/interepisodic. Current management strategies include trigger avoidance, abortive and prophylactic medication therapies, and supportive care. The goal of therapy for the remission phase is prophylaxis of further episodes. Antidepressant, antiepileptic, and antimigraine medications show an overall reduction or remission of CVS symptoms in more than 70% of patients. This article provides a summary of diagnostic strategies and reviews current management strategies for CVS. Keywords: cyclic vomiting syndrome, emesis, hyperemesis, vomiting, CVS