Developmental regression

Developmental regression is when the child loses function or fails to progress beyond a prolonged plateau after a period of relatively normal development. Developmental regression could be due to metabolic disorders, progressive hydrocephalus, worsening of seizures, increased spasticity, worsening of movement disorders or parental misconception of acquired milestones. Repeated medical evaluations, prior photographs, and home movies can help support the diagnosis of regression and establish the timing of its onset. Whether the neurologic decline is predominantly affecting the gray matter or the white matter of the brain needs to be ascertained. Features suggestive of gray matter involvement include seizures or EEG changes, movement disorders, blindness with retinal changes, personality changes, and dementia.

See also

• Developmental delay
• Developmental disorder