Nodding disease

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
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Nodding disease
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Seizures, cognitive impairment, stunted growth
Complications	Malnutrition, injuries from falls
Onset	Typically between ages 5 and 15
Duration	Chronic
Types	N/A
Causes	Unknown, possibly linked to Onchocerciasis
Risks	Living in endemic areas
Diagnosis	Clinical evaluation, exclusion of other conditions
Differential diagnosis	Epilepsy, malnutrition, cerebral malaria
Prevention	Unknown
Treatment	Supportive care, antiepileptic drugs
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Poor, progressive neurological decline
Frequency	Endemic in parts of South Sudan, Uganda, and Tanzania
Deaths	N/A

Nodding Disease is a neurologic condition characterized by repetitive dropping forward of the head, often associated with other forms of seizures, cognitive decline, and malnutrition. It primarily affects children between the ages of 5 and 15 years old. The disease is named for the characteristic, pathological nodding head movements that are a hallmark of the condition.

Epidemiology

Nodding disease has been reported in several African countries, including South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda. The disease is believed to be associated with Onchocerca volvulus, a parasitic worm that causes river blindness, although the exact cause remains unknown.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of nodding disease is the characteristic nodding of the head, which is often triggered by food or cold temperatures. Other symptoms can include seizures, cognitive decline, growth retardation, and malnutrition.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of nodding disease is primarily based on the characteristic symptoms and history of exposure in an endemic area. There are currently no specific laboratory tests for nodding disease.

Treatment

Treatment for nodding disease primarily involves managing the symptoms. This can include antiepileptic drugs to control seizures, nutritional support, and physical and occupational therapy to help manage disability.

Research

Research into nodding disease is ongoing. The World Health Organization and other international health organizations are working to better understand the disease and develop effective treatments.

See also

• Onchocerciasis
• Epilepsy
• Neurological disorders

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