Infantile Tremor Syndrome With Movement Disorder: Current Perspective

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Neurology
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Infantile tremor syndrome (ITS) is a rare neurological disorder.
• ITS is often associated with nutritional deficiencies in infants.
• Exclusive breastfeeding without adequate complementary feeding is a potential risk factor.

Observation:

• A 9-month-old infant exclusively breastfed presented with irritability, listlessness, grade 2 malnutrition, tremors, hyperpigmentation, scarce scalp hair, and developmental delays.
• Laboratory results showed macrocytic anemia and low vitamin B12 levels (205 pg/dL).
• MRI revealed cerebral and mild cerebellar atrophy.

Findings:

• The patient was diagnosed with infantile tremor syndrome.
• Treatment with vitamin B12 supplementation, along with zinc, magnesium, folic acid, and iron, led to significant improvement.
• The infant's tremors resolved, and responsiveness and interest in surroundings increased.

Implications:

• Early recognition and prompt treatment of infantile tremor syndrome are essential.
• Promoting proper infant nutrition, timely complementary feeding, and appropriate weaning practices can help prevent ITS.
• This case highlights the critical role of nutrition in infant neurodevelopment.