Diagnostic value of electroencephalography [EEG] and electromyography [EMG] in floppy infants

ABSTRACT

Thirty seven floppy infants, their ages ranged from 6 to 20 months were examined clinically and investigated by EEG. Six causes of the floppy infant syndrome were recognized in patients under study and arranged in the order of their frequency. They were atonic diplegia [32.4%] infantile spinal muscular atrophy, [ISMA] [21.6%] primary myopathies [16.2%] and inflammation or infection of peripheral nerves [16.2%], congenital hyperlaxity of ligaments [8.1%] and benign congenital hypotonia [5.4%]. Although a correct diagnosis could be suggested on clinical grounds in some patients, EMG and EEG are proved to be essential tools in the evaluation of floppy. They help to confirm correct diagnosis and hence provides better data for prognosis. However, there will remain very few cases in whom more invasive investigations, such as muscle biopsy, may be required. We do recommend the use of EEG and EMG in any work up for the investigation and the diagnosis of floppy infants