What is Paediatric Neurology?
The specialised field of paediatric neurology diagnoses and manages conditions that affect a child's nervous system which is made up of the brain, spinal cord, nerves and muscles. A paediatric neurologist, casually referred to as a neurologist for kids, looks at how these systems develop and function from infancy through adolescence. This subspeciality, unlike adult neurology, considers the unique challenges of a growing body. It specialises in early intervention which can significantly influence a child's long-term development and quality of life. Treating conditions is a large part of the job but the goal is much larger. It's to support each child in reaching their full potential, addressing concerns that range from common headaches to complex developmental disorders.
Some present from birth and others acquired later, children can experience a wide range of neurological issues. The causes vary, but all require a careful and individualised approach.
Epilepsy and seizure disorders are some of the most common neurological issues children face with recurrent, unprovoked seizures being the hallmark of epilepsy. This can range from absence seizures (staring spells) to convulsions. We run a dedicated first seizure clinic to evaluate "funny turns" and determine if they are epileptic in nature. Frequent or severe headaches, including migraines, are a common reason for referral.
Some children struggle with neurodevelopmental disorders which affects how their brain grows and learns. Conditions such as autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, speech and language delay and coordination difficulties (dyspraxia) fall under this umbrella. Cerebral palsy is a group of disorders that affect movement and posture, caused by an insult to the developing brain.
Neuromuscular disorders are another group of conditions affecting the nerves and muscles that control movement, including muscular dystrophies, hypotonia (low muscle tone) and myasthenia gravis. Movement disorders can include tics, dystonia (involuntary muscle contractions) and other conditions affecting the control of movement.
Lastly, neurogenetic and metabolic disorders like inherited conditions such as neurofibromatosis or tuberous sclerosis that affect the nervous system are also treated under paediatric neurology.
