Important

It is possible that the main title of the report West Syndrome is not the name you expected. Please check the synonyms listing to find the alternate name(s) and disorder subdivision(s) covered by this report.

Synoyms

• Generalized Flexion Epilepsy
• Infantile Epileptic Encephalopathy
• Infantile Myoclonic Encephalopathy
• Jackknife Convulsion
• Massive Myoclonia
• Salaam Spasms
• Infantile Spasms

Disorder Subdivision

None

General Discussion

It is possible that the main title of the report West Syndrome is not the name you expected. Please check the synonyms listing to find the alternate name(s) and disorder subdivision(s) covered by this report. Synonyms Generalized Flexion Epilepsy Infantile Epileptic Encephalopathy Infantile Myoclonic Encephalopathy Jackknife Convulsion Massive Myoclonia Salaam Spasms Infantile Spasms Disorder Subdivisions None General Discussion West Syndrome is a rare form of infantile spasm that occurs very early in the development of an infant. Unusual brain wave patterns occur (hypsarrhythmia) and possibly mental retardation. The spasms that occur may range from violent jackknife or "salaam" movements where the whole body bends in half, or they may be no more than a mild twitching of the nose or mouth. These spasms usually begin in the early months after birth and can often be helped with medication. There may be many different causes for the spasms. Neurological testing will be helpful in determining the cause.