Aparna V.R. Polavarapu, MD

"Once we get a referral for infantile spasms, we get them into an EEG appointment very quickly. This is because delay in diagnosis and in treatment can affect outcomes.”

Infantile spasms—seizures that are characterized by a sudden stiffening of the body and brief bending forward or backward of the arms, legs, and head—can begin in children as early as 3 months of age and almost always dissipate by the age of 4. The vast majority of cases of infantile spasms start by 12 months of age, heightening the need for diagnosing and treating these patients as soon as possible.

There can be a multitude of long-term effects of infantile spasms, including severe developmental issues and the potential for their condition to turn into another form of epilepsy. On top of that, despite the likelihood of the seizures ending, patients with infantile spasms may be susceptible to refractory forms of epilepsy, which may require more additional treatment.

Aparna V.R. Polavarapu, MD, pediatric neurologist, Montefiore Health System, sat down with 

 to raise awareness and provide additional background on the importance of getting children with infantile spasms the care they need so they can begin their treatment regimen as early as possible.

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The pediatric neurologist at Montefiore Health System explains the importance of treating infantile spasms as early as possible and how it may impact outcomes.

Aparna V.R. Polavarapu, MD: Early Treatment for Infantile Spasms

"I think parents should feel empowered to bring up any new events with their pediatricians… the awareness and quick treatment can then lead to improved outcomes.”

The first week of December is Infantile Spasms Awareness Week (ISAW), which is dedicated to raising awareness for the thousands of children who suffer from the debilitating disorder each year. These signature social events can help parents and caregivers of children with infantile spasms come together while also leading those who may be new to the disorder to resources or advocacy groups that can ease their process.

Infantile spasms, also known as West syndrome, is characterized by subtle seizures called “flexor spasms” or “jackknife seizures” due to their appearance. Aparna V.R. Polavarapu, MD, pediatric neurologist, Montefiore Health System, mentioned that raising awareness is crucial, particularly for the parents of these children because they can then take the proper steps in seeking clinical care and begin the treatment process as early as possible.

, Polavarapu details some of the main reasons why it is necessary to raise awareness for infantile spasms, and whether it is underrepresented in comparison to other epilepsies.

The pediatric neurologist at Montefiore Health System provided her thoughts on the importance of Infantile Spasms Awareness Week.

Aparna V.R. Polavarapu, MD

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Aparna V.R. Polavarapu, MD: Early Treatment for Infantile Spasms

Aparna V.R. Polavarapu, MD: Raising Awareness for Infantile Spasms