Benign paroxysmal torticollis of infancy

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P Drigo1, G Carli, A M Laverda

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 3, 35128, Padova, Italy. nepe@child.pedi.unipd.it

Brain & Development
|May 18, 2000
PubMed

Insights

Benign paroxysmal torticollis is a common, temporary infant condition causing head tilting. Early recognition by pediatricians can prevent unnecessary diagnostic tests for this benign disorder.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Functional Neurological Disorders

Background:

  • Benign paroxysmal torticollis (BPT) is an episodic functional disorder of early infancy.
  • Its etiology remains unknown, and it typically presents in healthy infants.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To raise pediatrician awareness of benign paroxysmal torticollis.
  • To reduce misdiagnosis and unnecessary investigations in infants presenting with head tilting.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective case series analysis.
  • Observation of 22 patients at a pediatric neurology outpatient clinic in Padova.

Main Results:

  • Patients experienced episodic head tilting lasting hours to days.
  • No associated symptoms were consistently reported.
  • The condition resolved spontaneously within the first few years of life.

Conclusions:

  • Benign paroxysmal torticollis is a frequent and benign condition in infants.
  • Pediatricians should be familiar with BPT to avoid misinterpretation and extensive testing.
  • Timely diagnosis facilitates appropriate management and parental reassurance.

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