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Definition Return to top
Spasmus nutans is a disorder affecting infants. It involves rapid, uncontrolled eye movements, head bobbing, and occasionally, abnormal positioning of the neck.
See also: Nystagmus
Causes Return to top
Most cases of spasmus nutans begin between age 4 months and 1 year. It usually goes away by itself in several months to years.
The cause is unknown, although it may be associated with other medical conditions. (Rarely, symptoms similar to spasmus nutans may be due to certain types of brain tumors.)
Symptoms Return to top
Exams and Tests Return to top
A neurologic examination confirms the presence of the symptoms.
Tests may include:
Treatment Return to top
The benign form of spasmus nutans requires no treatment. Other conditions causing spasmus nutans must be treated individually.
Outlook (Prognosis) Return to top
Usually, this disorder goes away on its own without treatment.
Possible Complications Return to top
There are usually no complications.
When to Contact a Medical Professional Return to top
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if your child has rapid involuntary movements of the eyes or head nodding. The doctor will need to perform an exam to rule out other possible causes for the symptoms.
Update Date: 5/22/2007 Updated by: Joseph V. Campellone, M.D., Division of Neurology, Cooper University Hospital, Camden, NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
