MCQ Pediatrics Answer 3

The cause of amyoplasia is unknown, but children with this disorder have a decreased number of anterior horn cells in the spinal cord, suggesting a neuropathic cause. Other studies have shown that the disorder may be myopathic in origin. In the latter instance, diminution of in utero movement may be the final common pathway leading to contractures.

Every child presenting with multiple joint contractures should have a complete musculoskeletal evaluation and genetics consultation. The distribution of involvement of multiple joint contractures is variable. The classic presentation involves the upper and lower extremities. The lower extremities are typically more involved than the upper extremities. Involvement of all four extremities is quadrimelic involvement.

It is also possible that only the lower extremities or upper extremities (bimelic) may be involved. It is unusual to see only one extremity or a portion of one extremity (monomelic) involved.

Category: Pediatrics MCQs