Transient movement disorders in children

Transient movement disorders are quite common in pediatrc practice, occurring mainly in infants. They are underdiagnosed but represent about 20% of cases of movement disorders (tics excluded) seen in a neuropaediatric department. Dystonia, tremor and myoclonus are the most common. Transient idiopathic dystonia of infancy is quite common, and the diagnosis can be suspected on clinical examination. Knowledge of these disorders avoids not only unnecessary tests and treatment, but also familial anxiety.