Sandifer syndrome is a condition in which babies and children exhibit abnormal, jerky, neck, head and back movements which often resembles seizures.
Sandifer syndrome is a rare condition and is often associated with GERD or gastroesophageal reflux disease.
The distinctive arching and twisting movements in babies is often triggered by eating or occur shortly after the baby eats.
The most noticeable symptom of sandifer syndrome is the involuntary arching of the back as well as twisting of the neck and head tilting which is often described as dystonic movements.
Sandifer syndrome is also strongly linked to gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD, where the stomach acid flows back into the esophagus and causes discomfort and irritation.
These unusual movements with Sandifer syndrome can be mistaken for seizures and result in misdiagnoses and unnecessary testing.
Sandifer syndrome most often occurs in infants and young children, and often resolves by the time the child reaches 18 months to 24 months of age.
GERD or gastroesophageal reflux triggers the abnormal movements as a way for the child or baby to relieve the discomfort or pain.
Other conditions such as hiatal hernias or certain medications can also contribute to sandifer syndrome.
Babies and children with sandifer syndrome may vomit and sometimes with blood due to the reflux and they may be reluctant to feed due to the discomfort associated with eating and reflux.
Treatment for sandifer syndrome includes proton pump inhibitors or H2 blockers to reduce stomach acid production and keeping the child upright after feeding and adjusting of the child's diet such as through thickening of formula and avoiding certain foods,.