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Dissociation of motor maturation.
1Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Neurology, Connecticut Children's Medical Center, Hartford CT 06106, USA. fdimari@ccmckids.org
Journal of Child Neurology
|July 31, 2003
Summary
Dissociated motor maturation, characterized by a unique "sitting on air" posture, affects children with delayed gross motor skills. This condition, despite initial concerns, typically resolves with an excellent prognosis and normal developmental outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Developmental Pediatrics
- Clinical Outcomes
Background:
- Dissociated motor maturation (DMM) is a condition presenting with delayed gross motor milestones.
- Children with DMM are often referred for evaluation of suspected cerebral palsy.
- The characteristic "sitting on air" posture is a key diagnostic indicator.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define the clinical outcomes of children diagnosed with dissociated motor maturation.
- To identify diagnostic signs and prognostic indicators for DMM.
- To differentiate DMM from other developmental disorders.
Main Methods:
- Prospective acquisition of clinical data from 8 children with DMM.
- Serial clinical examinations including developmental assessments.
- Review of developmental progress, including sitting, crawling, and walking milestones.
Main Results:
- All 8 children exhibited the "sitting on air" posture and normal developmental assessments apart from hypotonia in some.
- Children achieved sitting by 8 months and independent walking by a mean of 20.1 months.
- Neuroimaging and laboratory tests were normal in those evaluated.
Conclusions:
- Dissociated motor maturation is a benign condition with an excellent prognosis.
- The "sitting on air" posture is a reliable diagnostic sign for DMM.
- Continued follow-up is recommended to confirm normal developmental trajectories.