A 3-month-old infant presents with infantile spasms. MRI brain is normal. What is the first-line pharmacological treatment?
- A Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) ✓
- B Oral prednisolone
- C Vigabatrin
- D Sodium valproate
Correct answer: A. Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)
Explanation
Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) is the first-line treatment for infantile spasms, as recommended by standard pediatric neurology texts. Vigabatrin is an alternative, particularly for infantile spasms associated with tuberous sclerosis complex. Oral corticosteroids are sometimes used but ACTH remains the established first-line agent. Sodium valproate is used for other epilepsy syndromes but not as first-line for infantile spasms.
Reference: Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics, 21st ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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