Infantile Spasms

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Infantile Spasms (Salaam Seizures = West syndrome)

• Onset at 4 - 8 months life.

• Flexor Spasm (Symmetrical contracture of head trunk and extremities)

• Rarely extensor or mixed

• During sleep or arousal.

EEG - Hypsarrhythmia ( Chaotic pattern of high voltage bilateral synchronous waves)

Types : Idiopathic ; Secondary

Idiopathic = Cryptogenic ( Good prognosis )

Secondary -

1. Birth asphyxia
2. Structural malformations of brain
3. Tuberous sclerosis
4. Downs syndrome

Drug of choice : ACTH ( to suppress CRH - corticotropin releasing hormone)

DOC in cases of Tuberous sclerosis - Vigabatrin

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