Infantile Spasms

Infantile spasms are an age-specific epileptic syndrome characterized by brief, symmetric flexor or extensor spasms, typically occurring in clusters. Etiologies include genetic mutations, cortical malformations, metabolic disorders, and hypoxic-ischemic injury. Pathophysiology involves disruption of cortical-subcortical networks and abnormal neuronal excitability. Diagnosis is clinical, supported by EEG showing hypsarrhythmia. Management includes adrenocorticotropic hormone, vigabatrin, or other antiepileptics; prognosis is highly variable and depends on underlying etiology and seizure control, with a high risk of developmental delay.