Infantile spasms

Infantile spasms, also known as West Syndrome, is a rare and usually severe form of epilepsy (seizure disorder) that is most commonly diagnosed in infancy. This condition is characterized by sudden stiffening of the body, arms and legs, and rapid jerking (spasms) of the extremities. The spasms commonly occur in clusters, typically between 1-4 times each day, and are often trigged by sudden noises, stress, or changes in the infant’s environment.
Infantile spasms can have a significant impact on an infant’s developmental progress, leading to delays in motor skills, language, and cognition. Early diagnosis and treatment are vital to minimize these effects and improve outcomes.
Medications frequently used to treat infantile spasms include:

ACTH (Adrenocorticotropic hormone): ACTH, a hormone produced by the pituitary gland, is often administered as a vasopressin injection to manage infantile spasms. However, its use may be restricted due to potential side effects such as seizures, high blood pressure, and suppression of the immune system.
Vigabatrin (Sabril): Sabril is an antiepileptic drug that works by affecting the neurotransmitter GABA in the brain. It is often preferred for treating infantile spasms because of its efficacy and its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier easily. However, long-term treatment with Sabril may carry the risk of vision loss, primarily in the form of tunnel-like field constriction.

Clinicians may also consider surgery, such as a corpus callosotomy or cerebral commissurotomy, as a treatment option when medications are ineffective or present significant side effects.
Regular monitoring and follow-ups by healthcare professionals are essential to ensure prompt adjustments to treatment plans to optimize patient safety and outcomes. While infantile spasms can significantly impact an infant’s overall well-being, early recognition and appropriate management can help mitigate these effects and improve long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes.