Peds

Breath Holding Spell

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Breath Holding Spell, Breath-Holding Spell

  • Characteristics
  1. Transient episodes of breath holding
  2. Associated with child becoming limp and unresponsive
  3. Seizure-type activity may occur
  • Type
  1. Cyanotic Breath Holding Spell (most common)
  2. Pallid Breath Holding Spell
  • Diagnostics
  1. Electroencephalogram (EEG) normal
  • Differential Diagnosis
  1. See Pediatric Spells
  • Evaluation
  1. Thorough history and examination
  2. Rule-out other Pediatric Spell
  3. Consider checking for Iron Deficiency Anemia
    1. Kolkiran (2005) Acta Paediatr 94:1227-31 [PubMed]
  • Management
  1. No intervention is necessary
    1. In fact, interventions may reinforce behavior
  2. Position child in safe place (e.g. bed)
  3. Do not hold or play until completely recovers