Spasmus nutans
Key points
- Spasmus nutans is a specific type of pendular nystagmus of infancy accompanied by head bobbing and occasionally by abnormal position of the neck.
- Spasmus nutans involves a triad of symptoms which includes horizontal, vertical, or pendular nystagmus (fine, rapid jerking of the eyes back and forth, and from side to side), head nodding, and head tilting.
- Signs and tests A neurologic examination confirms the presence of the symptoms.
- Call for an appointment with your health care provider if your child has nystagmus, head nodding, or other symptoms (to rule out causative conditions such as tumors).
Definition
Spasmus nutans is a specific type of pendular nystagmus of infancy accompanied by head bobbing and occasionally by abnormal position of the neck.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Spasmus nutans involves a triad of symptoms which includes horizontal, vertical, or pendular nystagmus (fine, rapid jerking of the eyes back and forth, and from side to side), head nodding, and head tilting.
Most cases begin between age 4 months and 1 year. It usually goes away by itself in several months to years. Less commonly it may be associated with other causative conditions. Rarely, symptoms like those of spasmus nutans may be produced by tumors in the optic chiasm or third ventricle of the brain.
Symptoms
- Nystagmus (fine, rapid jerking of the eyes from side to side)
- Head nodding
- Head tilting
Signs and tests
A neurologic examination confirms the presence of the symptoms.
Tests may include:
- CT scan of the head
- MRI scan of the head
Treatment
The benign form of spasmus nutans requires no treatment. Other conditions causing spasmus nutans must be treated individually.
Expectations (prognosis)
Usually, there is a spontaneous resolution.
Complications
There are usually no complications.
Calling your health care provider
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if your child has nystagmus, head nodding, or other symptoms (to rule out causative conditions such as tumors).
Prevention
Not applicable.
Frequently asked questions
What are spasmus nutans?
Spasmus nutans is a specific type of pendular nystagmus of infancy accompanied by head bobbing and occasionally by abnormal position of the neck.
What are the risk factors for spasmus nutans?
Spasmus nutans involves a triad of symptoms which includes horizontal, vertical, or pendular nystagmus (fine, rapid jerking of the eyes back and forth, and from side to side), head nodding, and head tilting. Most cases begin between age 4 months and 1 year. It usually goes away by itself in several months to years. Less commonly it may be associated with other causative conditions. Rarely, symptoms like those of spasmus nutans may be produced by tumors in the optic chiasm or third ventricle of the brain.
What are the symptoms of spasmus nutans?
- Nystagmus (fine, rapid jerking of the eyes from side to side)
- Head nodding
- Head tilting Signs and tests A neurologic examination confirms the presence of the symptoms. Tests may include:
- CT scan of the head
- MRI scan of the head Treatment The benign form of spasmus nutans requires no treatment. Other conditions causing spasmus nutans must be treated individually.
Written and revised by
David Cohen, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
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