Lower extremity paralysis in a male preadolescent

Area of Science:

• Pediatric neurology
• Psychosomatic medicine
• Child psychology

Background:

• Conversion disorder is a neurological condition affecting children.
• Symptoms can include paralysis and sensory loss.
• Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial.

Observation:

• A 12-year-old boy presented with sudden bilateral leg paralysis and sensory loss.
• Initial examinations revealed no organic cause.
• Neurologic, psychiatric, and psychological evaluations were conducted.

Findings:

• The patient was diagnosed with conversion disorder.
• Treatment involved relaxation exercises, guided imagery, and antidepressant medication.
• The patient regained the ability to walk independently before discharge.

Implications:

• This case highlights the importance of considering conversion disorder in pediatric patients with unexplained neurological symptoms.
• Multidisciplinary treatment approaches are effective in managing conversion disorder.
• General pediatricians play a key role in recognizing and managing conversion disorder, improving patient outcomes.