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Shuddering attacks-report of four children
1Department of Pediatrics; Epilepsy Center, Nishi-Niigata Central National Hospital, Niigata, Japan.
Pediatric Neurology
|December 19, 2000
Summary
Shuddering attacks in infants are typically benign, but this study suggests potential nervous system development issues. Further investigation is warranted despite their common benign nature.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pediatrics
- Developmental Neuroscience
Background:
- Shuddering attacks are uncommon, benign infant disorders needing differentiation from epileptic seizures.
- These episodes involve brief, daily shivering without consciousness impairment.
- Shuddering attacks and benign myoclonus of early infancy share nosologic identity.
Observation:
- Video-electroencephalographic monitoring was used to study four infants (8-14 months) with shuddering attacks.
- One patient's shuddering frequency resembled essential tremor, noted as electromyography contamination.
- Attacks decreased or resolved in all patients.
Findings:
- One patient showed mild MRI abnormalities and had a family history of epilepsy.
- Another patient had a flattened sella turcica.
- Despite a generally benign presentation, potential nervous system developmental issues may be present.
Implications:
- While often benign, shuddering attacks may indicate underlying neurological development concerns.
- Avoidance of unnecessary investigations is advised, but careful monitoring is crucial.
- This research highlights the need for nuanced assessment in pediatric neurology.