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 IS.
 Symptomatic causes
In about 70% of cases, the cause of IS can be linked to causes such as a central nervous system (CNS) infection, brain developmental abnormalities, or genetic abnormalities. These cases of IS are considered to be "symptomatic." Understanding the cause or origin of IS 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 IS. When the cause or origin of IS cannot be identified, the condition is characterized as "cryptogenic." These children have the greatest likelihood of a developmentally normal, seizure-free outcome. |
