Rett's syndrome following bronchopneumonia.

INDIAN PEDIATRICS 297 VOLUME 41MARCH 17, 2004 stereotypic hand wringing and washing movements. All her milestones virtually regressed over one year after an episode of bronchopneumonia. Environmental factors like fever has been reported to trigger the onset of RS in genetically predisposed subjects, though there are hardly any reports in the literature. Seizures are one of the supportive criteria but these are overestimated. Nonseizure events like twitching/jerking/head turning/trembling/bruxism/staring/laughing/ pupillary dilatation/breath holding and hyperventilation are usually confused with seizures(2). Role of video EEG is very important for diagnosis and to avoid the overprescription and adverse effects of antiepileptic drugs. Myoclonus although reported has not been characterized. Children with RS are prone to sudden death. Prolonged QT interval/low heart rate/hyperventilation and breath holding spells are important components of this syndrome.