The treatment team usually includes pediatric neurologists, neurosurgeons, nurses specializing in epilepsy care, and dietitians
Infantile spasms (IS) are seizures seen in epilepsy of infancy and early childhood
Infantile spasms usually cease spontaneously by age five, but are often replaced by seizures of other types. Therefore, emphasis is placed on lifelong seizure prevention rather than recovery
Antiepileptic medications are the mainstay of therapy for infants with infantile spasms
Infantile spasms usually resolve with or without treatment in the majority of patients, generally by mid-childhood. However, other seizure types arise in 50-70% of patients
The number of neurological diseases that can result in infantile spasms is very large, but some of the major categories include intrauterine injury and infection, disorders caused by lack of blood flow to the fetal brain
Infantile spasms were first described by the English physician W.J. West (1794-1848) in 1841
In the United States, infantile spasms constitute 2% of childhood epilepsies, and 25% of epilepsies with onset in the first year of life. The rate of IS is 1.6-5.0 cases per 10,000 live births
Mental retardation occurs in 70-90% of persons with infantile spasms, usually involving severe to profound retardation. Other neurological deficits, such as cerebral palsy, may be seen in about 30-50% of patients.
The diagnosis of infantile spasms is made by a combination of the typical features, along with a characteristic electroencephalogram (EEG), which shows a very disorganized pattern termed hypsarrhythmia
Peter M. Jeavons has written: 'Photosensitive epilepsy' -- subject(s): Biological Photosensitization, Epilepsy 'Infantile spasms' -- subject(s): Infantile Spasms
Flexor spasms involve flexion of the neck, trunk, and extremities. Extensor spasms consist of extension of the neck, trunk, and extremities
Infantile spasms, a type of epilepsy that typically occurs in infants, can lead to serious complications if not treated promptly. While the condition itself does not directly cause death, it can be associated with underlying neurological issues that may pose significant risks. Additionally, prolonged seizures can lead to developmental delays and other health problems, making early diagnosis and intervention crucial. If you suspect an infant has spasms, it is vital to seek medical attention immediately.