Unfortunately, not much is known about what triggers infantile spasms. Scientific research is needed to enhance the understanding of infantile spasms - and better understanding has the potential to lead to improved treatment and developmental outcomes for patients with infantile spasms.
Symptomatic causes
In about 70% of cases, the cause of infantile spasms can be linked to causes such as a central nervous system (CNS) infection, brain developmental abnormalities, genetic abnormalities or brain injury. These cases of infantile spasms are considered to be "symptomatic," a cause of IS is found. Understanding the cause or origin of infantile spasms can impact the course of treatment selected, and the child's prognosis (outcome) depends greatly on the underlying cause of the disorder.
Cryptogenic causes
In approximately 30% of cases, there is no known cause for the infantile spasms. When the cause or origin of infantile spasms cannot be identified, the condition is characterized as "cryptogenic,." no apparent cause. These children have the greatest likelihood of a developmentally normal, seizure-free outcome.
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