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[Breath-holding spells in children]

Bettina Bjerring, Nanette Mol Debes1

  • 1nanette.marinette.monique.debes@regionh.dk.

Ugeskrift for Laeger
|December 7, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Breath-holding spells in infants, possibly linked to autonomic system issues, may improve with iron treatment. Further research is needed due to low evidence levels for these episodes.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Neurology
  • Autonomic Dysfunction

Background:

  • Breath-holding spells are involuntary infant episodes triggered by provocation.
  • These spells can cause seizures and loss of consciousness.
  • The pathophysiology involves potential autonomic system dysregulation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current understanding of breath-holding spells.
  • To explore potential contributing factors like iron deficiency and oxidative stress.
  • To assess the efficacy of iron treatment and long-term implications.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of existing studies on breath-holding spells.
  • Analysis of factors including iron levels, personality traits, and oxidative stress.
  • Examination of treatment outcomes, particularly iron supplementation.

Main Results:

  • Iron treatment has shown effectiveness in some cases.
  • Associated issues include concentration problems.
  • An increased risk of future syncope has been noted.

Conclusions:

  • The exact pathophysiology of breath-holding spells remains unclear.
  • Autonomic system dysregulation is a suspected factor.
  • Low evidence necessitates further research, especially regarding iron's role.

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