Question
What are the early symptoms of infantile spasm? Does it manifest as a seizure?
Answer
When a child is a few months old and exhibits spasms with a nodding and bending posture, it could be an early sign of infantile spasm. In addition to generalized spasms, infantile spasm can also lead to severe intellectual disabilities. Once diagnosed, treatment should begin immediately to minimize brain damage. The main medications currently used to treat infantile spasm are nitrazepam and hormones, with combined use showing better effects. During the treatment process, medication should be administered regularly to maintain the necessary effective blood concentration. To prevent recurrence or transformation of infantile spasm into grand mal seizures or psychomotor seizures, medication dosage should not be reduced even after the attack completely stops. Instead, medication should continue to be taken for 2 to 4 years and reduced under the careful guidance of a doctor.