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Published on: November 21, 2013
Movement disorder emergencies in childhood
F J Kirkham1, P Haywood, P Kashyape
1Southampton University Hospitals NHS Trust, UK. fk@soton.ac.uk
Summary
This study categorizes acute-onset movement disorders in children into psychogenic, inflammatory/autoimmune, and non-inflammatory groups. Early diagnosis is crucial for potentially treatable inflammatory conditions, though outcomes vary.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Movement Disorders
- Neuroimmunology
Background:
- Literature on pediatric acute-onset movement disorders is fragmented.
- Understanding the diverse etiologies is essential for effective management.
Observation:
- A prospective cohort of 52 children with acute movement disorders was studied.
- Common disorders included chorea, dystonia, tremor, myoclonus, and Parkinsonism.
- Three main etiological groups were identified: psychogenic, inflammatory/autoimmune, and non-inflammatory.
Findings:
- Psychogenic disorders (12 children) were more common in older females, presenting with tremor and myoclonus.
- Inflammatory/autoimmune disorders (22 children) encompassed conditions like N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor encephalitis and Sydenham chorea.
- Non-inflammatory disorders (18 children) included drug-induced, metabolic, vascular, and secondary movement disorders.
Implications:
- Early diagnosis of treatable inflammatory/autoimmune conditions is critical, despite weak evidence.
- Management strategies vary significantly based on the underlying etiology.
- Variable outcomes highlight the need for further research and improved diagnostic approaches.
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