Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

What syndrome is typically associated with infant seizures that resemble colic?

1. Breath-holding syndrome

2. Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy

3. West's syndrome

4. Febrile seizures

The correct answer is: West's syndrome

West's syndrome is characterized by a specific type of seizure known as infantile spasms, which often present in infants during the first year of life. These spasms can resemble colicky behavior, as they involve sudden, brief flexion or extension of the limbs and may occur in clusters. Alongside the seizures, West’s syndrome is often accompanied by developmental delays and a distinctive EEG pattern known as hypsarrhythmia. This syndrome can be confused with colic due to the infant’s distress and the abrupt nature of the seizures, which may lead caregivers to interpret the symptoms as typical gastrointestinal discomfort rather than neurological episodes. Breath-holding syndrome, hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, and febrile seizures do not commonly present in the same manner as West's syndrome. Breath-holding syndrome is generally a response to frustration or anger, leading to transient loss of consciousness. Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy refers to brain injury resulting from a lack of oxygen and blood flow, often leading to more severe and different types of neurological deficits. Febrile seizures typically occur in the context of fever, usually in toddlers or young children, and are different from the spasms seen in West's syndrome. Therefore, the unique characteristics of West