Related Experiment Videos
[Intramedullary neuroenteric cyst simulating Sandifer's syndrome]
Alessandra De Palma1, Giulia Pattarino, Susanna Paccagnini
1Struttura complessa di Pediatria, Ospedale dei bambini V. Buzzi, Milano. alessandradepalma@libero.it
Summary
Sandifer syndrome, a condition mimicking gastroesophageal reflux disease, was diagnosed in a child with hypertonia and regurgitation. Neurological disorder due to intramedullary cysts was confirmed and resolved after surgical removal.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Gastroenterology
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Sandifer syndrome is characterized by paroxysmal postural abnormalities and gastrointestinal dysfunction.
- It is often misdiagnosed as gastroesophageal reflux disease, delaying appropriate treatment.
Observation:
- A child presented with recurrent episodes of neck and arm hypertonia and regurgitation.
- Initial symptoms suggested gastroesophageal reflux disease, leading to a diagnosis of Sandifer syndrome.
Findings:
- Standard therapy for gastroesophageal reflux disease failed to resolve the child's symptoms.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) revealed two large intramedullary cysts in the spinal cord.
Implications:
- Surgical removal of the intramedullary cysts led to complete resolution of the hypertonia and regurgitation.
- This case highlights the importance of considering neurological disorders in refractory Sandifer syndrome presentations.
- Early diagnosis and surgical intervention are crucial for favorable outcomes in similar pediatric cases.
Related Concept Videos
01:28Amebiasis
Entamoeba histolytica, a protozoan parasite, is responsible for intestinal and extraintestinal amebiasis. Though a significant proportion of infections remain asymptomatic, approximately 50 million individuals annually are estimated to present with clinical disease, resulting in up to 100,000 deaths globally. The disease burden is disproportionately high in regions with lower socioeconomic status, such as parts of India, Africa, Mexico, and Latin America.Etiology and TransmissionThe infective...
01:12Giardiasis
Giardiasis is a globally prevalent intestinal infection caused by the protozoan parasite Giardia duodenalis (also known as G. lamblia or G. intestinalis). This flagellated protozoan is the most frequently identified intestinal parasite in the United States and worldwide. Transmission primarily occurs via the fecal-oral route, with infection arising from ingestion of water or food contaminated with cysts. Individuals in low-resource settings, international travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, daycare...
01:27Diverticular Disease of the Colon
Diverticular disease involves the formation of diverticula—small sac-like outpouchings of the colonic wall—and their complications. It most commonly affects the sigmoid colon due to higher intraluminal pressure and structural vulnerability. It results from structural weakness and increased pressure in the colon, producing pseudodiverticula that may remain silent or progress to inflammation and serious complications.Structure of DiverticulaIn diverticulosis, these outpouchings are...
01:27Esophageal Achalasia
Esophageal achalasia is a chronic neurogenic disorder characterized by impaired relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and absent or ineffective peristalsis in the distal esophagus. This leads to a functional obstruction without a physical blockage, despite significant disruption of esophageal motility.EtiologyAchalasia is caused by degeneration of the myenteric (Auerbach's) plexus, specifically the loss of inhibitory ganglion cells that produce vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP)...
01:19Appendicitis
Appendicitis is an acute inflammatory condition of the vermiform appendix, most commonly caused by obstruction of its lumen. The appendix is a narrow, blind-ended pouch that extends from the cecum, making it particularly prone to obstruction. Causes include fecaliths, lymphoid hyperplasia (often after viral infections), parasites, tumors, or foreign bodies. This obstruction initiates a cascade of pathological changes.Luminal Obstruction and Early InflammationAfter obstruction, normal mucosal...