Infantile spasms (IS) are rare form of seizures that usually starts occurring in a child’s first year of life. The spasms may start as a small head drops which can be difficult to distinguish from normal movement such as normal startle reflex, colic or reflux. They may progress to larger spasms that include head going forwards and the legs coming up, with the arms flaring out which is the flexor spasm. Another type of spasm is the extensor spasms which is when the head goes back and the legs become straightened. The spasms can occur singularly or occur as clusters. A symptom associated with infantile spasms is developmental delay. Infantile spasms are usually diagnosed by having a EEG, which measures brain waves, and will show a specific abnormal pattern called a hypsarrhythmia.
The underlying cause of infantile spasm can be from a range of disorders that have affected the brain. It is important to identify this cause as infantile spasms are usually classified according to these causes.
Note: There are currently no drugs listed for "Infantile Spasms".
