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Environmentally induced transient motor signs in infancy
1Department of Child Health, St. George's Hospital, London.
Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology
|October 1, 1987
Summary
Environmental factors may influence transient abnormal motor signs in infants. Stimulation of legs can trigger these signs, which resolve upon removal of the stimulus.
Area of Science:
- Developmental pediatrics
- Pediatric neurology
- Child development
Background:
- Transient abnormal motor signs in infancy can mimic conditions like cerebral palsy.
- Understanding the etiology of such signs is crucial for accurate diagnosis and intervention.
Observation:
- Three infants presented with abnormal lower limb motor signs during late infancy.
- Clinical presentation intermittently showed normal muscle tone and function, distinguishing it from persistent conditions.
- Motor signs emerged during periods of artificially increased tactile stimulation to the feet and legs.
Findings:
- Abnormal motor signs in the lower limbs were directly correlated with external stimulation.
- Signs rapidly resolved upon cessation of the artificial stimulation, indicating a transient and stimulus-dependent nature.
- The findings suggest a potential role for environmental factors in the manifestation of these motor abnormalities.
Implications:
- Environmental factors may contribute to transient motor disturbances in some infants.
- This highlights the importance of considering external influences in the assessment of pediatric motor development.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms linking environmental stimulation to transient motor signs.