Pediatria pre prax 3/2009
Masturbation in infancy and early childhood and its differential diagnosis
Masturbation in young children is relatively common being typically manifested by leg crossing, rhythmic pelvic movements, accompanying noises, and sweating. Since there is no direct manipulation of the genitalia, signs of masturbation can be mistakenly interpreted as epileptic seizures, paroxysmal dyskinesia, or abdominal pain. Correct recognition of symptoms can spare the child from undergoing complicated examination procedures and unindicated treatment (e. g., antiepileptics). The authors report two cases with typical manifestations of childhood masturbation.
Keywords: infantile masturbation, paroxysmal dyskinesia, seizures.
