Acute Movement Disorders in Childhood.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Pediatric Neurology
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Acute-onset movement disorders (MDs) represent a significant neurological emergency in pediatric and adult populations.
• The differential diagnosis for acute MDs is broad, posing diagnostic challenges.
• MDs can be the primary symptom or a key indicator of underlying systemic or neurological conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive clinician's guide to the common and uncommon causes of acute-onset movement disorders.
• To focus on the clinical presentation and diagnostic investigations for acute MDs.
• To review both acquired and genetic etiologies of acute MDs.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of literature on acute-onset movement disorders.
• Analysis of clinical presentations and diagnostic work-up strategies.
• Categorization of causes into acquired (immune-mediated, infectious, vascular, toxic, metabolic) and genetic disorders.

Main Results:

• Acute MDs encompass a wide spectrum of etiologies, necessitating a structured diagnostic approach.
• Recognition of specific movement disorder phenomenology aids in identifying the underlying cause.
• Many treatable conditions can manifest as acute MDs, highlighting the importance of prompt diagnosis.

Conclusions:

• A thorough understanding of clinical syndromes and MD phenomenology is crucial for diagnosing acute-onset movement disorders.
• Prompt identification of the underlying cause of acute MDs is essential for initiating appropriate and potentially curative treatments.
• This review serves as a valuable resource for clinicians managing patients with acute MDs, particularly in pediatric neurology.