Pediatric neurology is a medical subspecialty that focuses on diagnosing and treating neurological conditions in children from birth through adolescence. It bridges the fields of paediatrics (child health) and neurology (nervous system disorders). Pediatric neurologists have specialized training to evaluate and manage disorders of the brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerves, muscles, and neurodevelopmental systems in the growing child.
Unlike adult neurology, paediatric neurology must consider the effects of ongoing brain development, age-specific symptoms, and how disorders may impact cognitive, motor, emotional, and social development. Many neurological conditions present differently in children compared to adults and may affect developmental milestones, behavior, learning, or physical abilities.
Children with neurological conditions often require a multidisciplinary approach, involving collaboration with other specialists such as paediatricians, geneticists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, and child psychologists. Early diagnosis and intervention are critical for minimizing long-term disability and improving quality of life.
- Seizure disorders (e.g., epilepsy, febrile seizures, infantile spasms)
- Neurodevelopmental disorders (e.g., autism, ADHD, intellectual disabilities)
- Neuromuscular disorders (e.g., muscular dystrophy, spinal muscular atrophy)
- Cerebral palsy and motor coordination disorders
- Genetic/metabolic disorders (e.g., leukodystrophies, mitochondrial disorders)
- Headaches and migraines
- Neurocutaneous syndromes (e.g., tuberous sclerosis, neurofibromatosis)
- Infections and inflammatory conditions (e.g., meningitis, encephalitis, autoimmune encephalitis)
- Brain tumors and hydrocephalus
- Developmental delay and learning disabilities
