Which of the following types of seizures is most likely to be associated with facing jerking movement in a newborn?

Question

Question

This question was previously asked in

AIIMS NORCET 7 Prelims Memory Based Paper 2024

Answer 1

Correct Answer: Clonic seizure

Rationale:

Clonic seizures are characterized by repetitive, rhythmic jerking movements of muscles on both sides of the body. In newborns, these seizures often present as repetitive jerking of the face, arms, or legs. This type of seizure is due to abnormal electrical activity in the brain and is the most common type of seizure observed in neonates.
Clonic seizures can be focal or generalized. In newborns, focal clonic seizures are more common and involve rhythmic jerking movements confined to one part of the body, such as the face or limbs.

Explanation of Other Options:

Tonic

Rationale: Tonic seizures involve sudden stiffening and contraction of muscles. They are characterized by a sustained increase in muscle tone and do not typically involve the jerking movements seen in clonic seizures.

Subtle seizure

Rationale: Subtle seizures in newborns can present with a variety of signs, including eye deviations, chewing movements, or bicycling movements of the legs. These signs are often less obvious and lack the distinct jerking movements of clonic seizures.

Absence seizure

Rationale: Absence seizures, also known as petit mal seizures, are characterized by brief episodes of staring and unresponsiveness. These seizures do not involve the jerking or muscle contractions seen in clonic or tonic seizures.

Conclusion:

Among the given options, clonic seizures are the most likely to be associated with facial jerking movements in a newborn. It is essential to recognize and differentiate these types of seizures for appropriate management and treatment.