infantile spasms
Pronunciation: IN-fan-tahyl SPAZMS
Type of epileptic seizure characterized by brief flexor or extensor spasms occurring in clusters during infancy.
Full Definition
Infantile spasms, also known as West syndrome when associated with hypsarrhythmia and developmental regression, are a specific type of epileptic seizure occurring typically between 3-12 months of age. The spasms consist of brief symmetric contractions of neck, trunk, and limb muscles, often occurring in clusters upon awakening. The characteristic EEG pattern is hypsarrhythmia, showing chaotic high-amplitude slow waves and multifocal spikes. This represents an epileptic encephalopathy with significant developmental implications. First-line treatments include ACTH, vigabatrin, or corticosteroids, with urgency due to the impact on neurodevelopment.
Usage
Usage note: Also called 'West syndrome' when presenting as the complete triad of spasms, hypsarrhythmia, and developmental regression.
In Context
- "The infant's clusters of flexor spasms with developmental regression indicated infantile spasms requiring urgent EEG." — Pediatric neurology consultation
- "Hypsarrhythmia on EEG confirmed the diagnosis of infantile spasms in this 6-month-old." — Electroencephalography report