Benign and periodic movement disorders in 2 children with Down syndrome

J Child Neurol. 2014 Oct;29(10):NP127-30. doi: 10.1177/0883073813508603. Epub 2013 Dec 5.

Abstract

Children with Down syndrome show hypotonia and ligamentous laxity that are associated with motor development delay. Neurologic disorders are common in children with Down syndrome; however, in literature the presence of periodic movement disorders has not yet been described. We report 2 different types of periodic movement disorders in 2 infants with Down syndrome. In the first case, we described an 8-month-old girl with involuntary head nodding and absence of any other neurologic or ophthalmologic abnormalities. In the second case, we described a 6-month-old boy with abnormal but painless head rotation and inclination, alternating from side to side. Episodes of head tilting were often associated with a state of general uneasiness. Neurologic examination between attacks was normal. The aim of this paper is to provide practical information on recognition and management of movement disorders in Down syndrome.

Keywords: Down syndrome; benign movement disorders; head tremor.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Down Syndrome / complications*
  • Down Syndrome / physiopathology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Male
  • Movement Disorders / complications*
  • Movement Disorders / physiopathology