Hypotonia

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Central nervous system

Hypotonia

Decreased muscle tone; Floppy infant

Take extra care when lifting and carrying a person with hypotonia to avoid causing an injury.

The physical examination will probably include a detailed examination of the nervous system and muscle function.

A neurologist (specialist in brain and nerves) will usually help evaluate the problem. Geneticists may help diagnose certain disorders. If there are also other medical problems, a number of different specialists will help care for the child.

Which diagnostic tests are done depends on the suspected cause of the hypotonia. Most of the conditions associated with hypotonia also cause other symptoms that can help in the diagnosis.

Many of these disorders require ongoing care and support.

Review Date: 12/18/2009
Reviewed By: Kimberly G. Lee, MD, MSc, IBCLC, Associate Professor of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC. Review provided by Verimed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).

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