Curriculum · Neurology
Infantile spasms (West syndrome)
What it is
Infantile spasms, or West syndrome, is a type of childhood epilepsy which typically presents in the first 4 to 8 months of life and is more common in male infants. They are often associated with a serious underlying condition and carry a poor prognosis.
How it presents
The characteristic 'salaam' attacks are flexion of the head, trunk and arms followed by extension of the arms. Each lasts only 1-2 seconds but may be repeated up to 50 times. Progressive mental handicap goes with them.
How it is diagnosed
The EEG shows hypsarrhythmia in two-thirds of infants. CT demonstrates diffuse or localised brain disease in 70%, for example tuberous sclerosis.