Torsion Dystonia in Children

Abstract

Medical treatment of childhood-onset dystonia can lead to substantial improvement of the condition, often with much more pronounced benefit than in adults. The authors give every patient a trial of levodopa to assess the possible diagnosis of dopa-responsive dystonia, followed-up with centrally acting anticholinergics such as trihexiphenydil. If needed, baclofen or clonazepam is added or substituted. In focal dystonia or segmental and generalized dystonia with prominent involvement of specific muscle groups, botulinum toxin injections are often used. Pallidal deep brain stimulation is offered to selected patients with medically refractory dystonia. Treatment of secondary dystonias, caused by such conditions as Wilson's disease, requires therapy for the underlying disorder. Physical therapy, splints, and occupational therapy can be useful in some patients. The authors do not use intrathecal baclofen unless there is evidence of accompanying spasticity.