Sandifer Syndrome: A Case Report

Abstract

Sandifer syndrome is an extra oesophageal manifestation of gastrointestinal reflux disease that usually presents with torticollis and dystonia (often mimicking epilepsy). Here, we describe a case of a four and a half years old child with convulsion, neck contortion, and irritability. Gastrointestinal reflux disease was suspected on the earlier visit of the patient based on the presenting symptom of vomiting and cough. Electroencephalogram revealed normal findings. A barium meal radiograph was performed which was insignificant for gastrointestinal reflux disease and hiatal hernia. Complete blood count showed results suggestive of iron deficiency anaemia, while the rest of the biochemical parameters and the infection screening were normal. The case was confirmed by a medication trial for gastrointestinal reflux disease. This syndrome is often misdiagnosed as infantile seizure and musculoskeletal disorder. So, physicians need to have a sound knowledge of Sandifer Syndrome while assessing a child presenting with convulsion and torticollis.

Keywords: gastroesophageal reflux; sandifer's syndrome; seizures; torticollis..

Figure 1. Torticollis (neck contortion) with irritability.