Hyperekplexia: a rare differential of neonatal fits described in a developing country.
Hyperekplexia is a rare condition in which there is an exaggerated startle response. We report how a case presented in Papua New Guinea (PNG) and was diagnosed with international support. This is the first reported case in PNG. It is an important diagnosis to make to prevent sudden death and inappropriate treatment. The case illustrates the benefit of having a link with an international specialist and we discuss the importance of communication between developing and industrialized countries.
McMaster
P
P
Port Moresby General Hospital, Papua New Guinea. Paddy_McMaster@compuserve.com
Cadzow
S
S
Vince
J
J
Appleton
B
B
D000927:Anticonvulsants / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002998:Clonazepam / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003906:Developing Countries; D004562:Electrocardiography; D004569:Electroencephalography; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008297:Male; D010219:Papua New Guinea; D012021:Reflex, Abnormal / Q000502:physiology*; D013216:Reflex, Startle / Q000502:physiology*; D012640:Seizures / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000503:physiopathology*; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed
D000927:Anticonvulsants; D002998:Clonazepam