Infantile masturbation mimicking paroxysmal disorders

Abstract

Three girls, aged between 7 months and 5 years, were referred with recurrent paroxysmal manifestations since the age of 6 to 10 months. All three had an entirely normal clinical examination, were initially thought to have epileptic fits, their electroencephalogram was unremarkable, and the ‘fits’ remained refractory to anticonvulsant therapy. They all had stereotypical and reproducible manifestations, with clear evidence of distractibility. Videotaping the manifestations by parents was crucial for the diagnosis. All three were diagnosed to have autostimulatory behaviour or infantile masturbation. No pathological psychosocial issues were identified in any of the families who accepted the diagnosis with great relief. Infantile masturbation mimics common pediatric problems, and, if unrecognized, may lead to considerable parental anxiety, unnecessary investigations and inappropriate and potentially harmful therapy. (J Pediatr Neurol 2003; 1(1): 43-45).