Abstract

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the clinical and etiological characteristics of pediatric patients followed with a diagnosis of dystonia at a tertiary pediatric neurology center.

Materials and Methods: Patients under the age of 18 who presented to our clinic between January 1, 2011, and December 31, 2021, and had a diagnosis or a preliminary diagnosis of dystonia in their records were included. Demographic data, clinical findings, laboratory and imaging results, genetic analyses, and treatment responses of the patients were retrospectively reviewed.

Results: A total of 32 patients with dystonia were included in the study. The mean age of the patients was 11 years (range: 1-17 years), with 12 females and 20 males. Secondary dystonia was the most common etiological group, with drug-induced dystonias being particularly prominent within this subgroup. Clinical benefit was achieved with botulinum toxin treatment in selected cases.

Conclusion: Childhood dystonias encompass a broad etiological spectrum. Comprehensive clinical evaluation and accurate classification are crucial for identifying the underlying cause and planning effective therapeutic interventions.