Infantile spasms/West Syndrome Flashcards
1
Q
What syndrome is infantile spasms also known as?
A
West Syndrome
2
Q
What is West syndrome/Infantile spasm?
A
A type of childhood epilepsy which present in the first 4 to 8 months of life.
3
Q
Is it more common in male or female infants?
A
Male
4
Q
What are the features of West syndrome/ Infantile spasms?
A
- ‘Salaam’ attacks: flexion of the head, trunk and arms followed by extension of the arms
- This lasts only 1-2 seconds but may be repeated up to 50 times
- Progressive mental handicap
5
Q
On CT, what will it show?
A
Diffuse or localised brain disease in 70% of cases (e.g. tuberous sclerosis)
6
Q
What is the prognosis like?
A
Poor
7
Q
How is it treated?
A
First line Vigabatrin
ACTH is also used.
