This article is only available in the PDF format. Download the PDF to view the article, as well as its associated figures and tables.
This is an interesting monograph dealing primarily with the association of "cyclical vomiting" and "epilepsy." Dr. Wallis was one of the first to write on this subject and now presents information on 20 of his patients. The case histories reveal, in addition to cyclical vomiting, the chief complaints to have been periodic headaches, behavior disturbances, abdominal pain, and fever. The diagnosis is suggested by the character and paroxysmal nature of the complaints and by the association of a family history of epilepsy. It is confirmed by the finding of an abnormal electroencephalogram, although the author states that 20%-30% may have normal readings. The satisfactory response to anticonvulsant therapy is further evidence for this diagnosis.
The actual significance of this syndrome is open to some question, but there is growing evidence, such as this contribution, that the association is a real one. This monograph is not based on scientifically controlled study;