Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 17, 2026
07:24
Using Eye-tracking to Assess the Relative Importance of Visual and Vestibular Input to Subcortical Motion Processing in the Roll Plane
Published on: August 22, 2025
Concussion or benign paroxysmal torticollis?
1Benedum Pediatric Trauma Program, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, PA 15237, USA. eareynolds@comcast.net
Advanced Emergency Nursing Journal
|November 1, 2012
Summary
Pediatric patients experiencing recurrent concussion-like symptoms may have benign paroxysmal torticollis, a rare neurological condition. Early diagnosis requires a thorough history and consideration of differential diagnoses beyond typical injuries.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pediatrics
- Pediatric Neurology
Background:
- Recurrent concussion-like symptoms in children can be challenging to diagnose.
- Differentiating between common injuries and rare pediatric syndromes is critical for appropriate management.
Observation:
- A pediatric patient presented multiple times with symptoms mimicking concussion, including crying, altered mentation, and vomiting.
- Further evaluation revealed associated torticollis, pallor, and episodes of vertigo.
Findings:
- The patient's presentation was consistent with benign paroxysmal torticollis, a periodic, paroxysmal syndrome.
- This condition can be misdiagnosed as concussion due to overlapping symptoms.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of comprehensive differential diagnosis in pediatric neurology.
- Emphasizes careful patient history taking to identify rare neurological syndromes.
- Underscores the need to consider conditions beyond typical trauma presentations in pediatric patients.
Related Concept Videos
01:28Traumatic Brain Injury l: Introduction
DefinitionTraumatic brain injury, or TBI, is a disturbance of normal brain function induced by an external mechanical force, such as a direct blow to the head or a penetrating injury. It can affect both brain structure and function, producing a wide range of clinical outcomes. TBI is a heterogeneous condition, meaning its effects may differ based on the type, location, and severity of the injury.Basis of ClassificationTBI is classified based on severity, injury mechanism, or pathophysiology. In...
01:15Equilibrium and Balance
The inner ear assumes dual functionalities of auditory perception and equilibrium maintenance. The vestibule is the organ responsible for balance. This organ contains mechanoreceptors, specifically hair cells, endowed with stereocilia, which aid in deciphering information regarding the position and motion of our heads. Two intrinsic components, the utricle and saccule, help perceive head position, while the semicircular canals track head movement. Neurological messages initiated in the...
01:26Transient Ischemic Attack l: Introduction
A transient ischemic attack (TIA) is a brief episode of neurological dysfunction caused by a temporary, focal reduction in cerebral blood flow. Although symptoms resemble those of an ischemic stroke, the interruption in perfusion is short-lived and does not cause permanent infarction. TIAs are clinically important because they often serve as early warning events for future stroke.Mechanisms of Transient Cerebral IschemiaTransient cerebral ischemia may arise through several mechanisms. One...
01:12Alterations in Muscle Tone ll
Alterations in muscle tone are common manifestations of neurological disorders and reflect dysfunction within different nervous system regions. Spasticity, paratonia, and dystonia represent distinct forms of hypertonia, each with unique mechanisms, clinical features, and diagnostic importance.CharacteristicsSpasticity happens from upper motor neuron lesions and is characterized by velocity-dependent resistance to passive movement. Clinical features include:Exaggerated deep tendon reflexesClonus...