Neuromuscular problems of the critically Ill neonate and child

Leslie H Hayes1, Basil T Darras1

  • 1Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston Children's Hospital, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, United States.

PubMed

Insights

Acute neuromuscular disorders can arise in pediatric intensive care, either as primary conditions or secondary to critical illness. This review covers acute neuromuscular crises and critical illness-related disorders in children.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Intensive Care Medicine
  • Neuromuscular Disorders

Background:

  • Acute neuromuscular disorders are observed in Pediatric Neurologic Intensive Care Units.
  • These disorders can be primary motor unit conditions or secondary to systemic illness.
  • Critical illness can predispose children to specific acute motor unit disorders.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To discuss acute neuromuscular crises in pediatric patients.
  • To review neuromuscular disorders associated with critical illness in children.
  • To provide comprehensive information for managing these conditions in an intensive care setting.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of acute neuromuscular disorders in pediatric intensive care.
  • Analysis of primary motor unit disorders presenting acutely.
  • Examination of neuromuscular complications arising from critical illness.

Main Results:

  • Identified primary neuromuscular disorders that present acutely or worsen with illness.
  • Highlighted neuromuscular disorders that develop secondary to critical illness.
  • Discussed the spectrum of acute neuromuscular conditions in infants, toddlers, and adolescents.

Conclusions:

  • Acute neuromuscular disorders are a significant concern in pediatric intensive care.
  • Both primary and critical illness-related neuromuscular conditions require careful management.
  • Understanding these disorders is crucial for effective pediatric neurologic intensive care.

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