What Is the Treatment for Infantile Spasms?
Infantile spasms is a severe epileptic encephalopathy of infancy characterised by clusters of sudden flexor or extensor movements and a distinctive interictal EEG pattern. Early recognition and initiation of an appropriate first-line therapy are essential to maximise the chance of seizure control and limit developmental impact.
First-Line Treatment Approach
The protocol is built around adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), used specifically for short-term treatment of infantile spasms. The complete regimen — including administration details, monitoring parameters, and decision points — is available in the full structured protocol.
Clinical Goals
Complete cessation of spasms and resolution of hypsarrhythmia, with response typically expected within 2 weeks.
References
- ACTH is probably effective for the short-term treatment of infantile spasms and in resolution of hypsarrhythmia (level B).
- Time to response is usually within 2 weeks, and an "all-or-none" response has been reported in a number of studies.