Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) Study of Pediatricians on Infantile Spasms

Vamsi Krishna Vaddi1, Jitendra Kumar Sahu2, Sumeet R Dhawan1

  • 1Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, 160012, India.

Insights

Pediatricians show gaps in knowledge and practice regarding Infantile Spasms (IS). Improved awareness and simplified guidelines are crucial for effective early management of this seizure type.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Epileptology
  • Clinical Practice Research

Background:

  • Infantile Spasms (IS) are a severe epilepsy syndrome requiring timely diagnosis and treatment.
  • Pediatricians play a critical role in the initial management of IS, particularly in developing countries.
  • Current knowledge, attitudes, and practices among pediatricians regarding IS management require investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of pediatricians concerning Infantile Spasms.
  • To identify areas of deficiency in the understanding and management of IS among healthcare providers.
  • To inform the development of targeted educational interventions and clinical guidelines.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 236 pediatricians in North India (Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Himachal Pradesh, Delhi).
  • Data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered via Survey Monkey Software between July 2016 and December 2017.
  • The survey explored diagnostic approaches, etiological understanding, treatment preferences, and perceived information needs regarding IS.

Main Results:

  • While most pediatricians recognized IS as a seizure type (95.5%), knowledge gaps were evident in its management.
  • Electroencephalogram (EEG) was the preferred investigation (91.8%), but its role in treatment decisions was limited (57.7%).
  • Treatment responses were often inadequately assessed (only 24% considered complete cessation of spasms), and a majority felt awareness and information were insufficient (90% and 62%, respectively).

Conclusions:

  • Significant deficits exist in pediatricians' evidence-based knowledge and practice concerning Infantile Spasms.
  • There is a pressing need to enhance pediatricians' capacity in managing IS through education and simplified national guidelines.
  • Empowering frontline healthcare providers is essential for improving outcomes for infants with IS, especially in resource-limited settings.
Abstract

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