Infantile spasms/West Syndrome Flashcards

1
Q

What syndrome is infantile spasms also known as?

A

West Syndrome

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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.

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3
Q

Is it more common in male or female infants?

A

Male

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4
Q

What are the features of West syndrome/ Infantile spasms?

A
  • Salaamattacks: 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
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5
Q

On CT, what will it show?

A

Diffuse or localised brain disease in 70% of cases (e.g. tuberous sclerosis)

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6
Q

What is the prognosis like?

A

Poor

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7
Q

How is it treated?

A

First line Vigabatrin

ACTH is also used.

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