Rigot A, Pedespan J M, Fontan D, Guillard J M
Service de Pédiatrie Médicale B, Hôpital des Enfants, Bordeaux.
Arch Fr Pediatr. 1992 Nov;49(9):807-9.
Mirror movements are a specific type of synkinesis. The pathogenesis is unknown. Three types have been identified: 1) a hereditary form, 2) a form associated with other neurological diseases, 3) a sporadic form, as is this case.
A girl was born at term after cesarean section for fetal anoxia. Psychomotor development seemed normal, but mirror movements of fingers, hands, wrists and forearms were noticed when she was 8-9 months old. There were no other neurological manifestations and the imaging techniques were normal. Rehabilitation was begun when she was 20 months old. The girl is now 4 1/2 years old and writes, draws and cuts up normally.
Mirror movements that are not associated with other neurological disorders usually remain unchanged and can be a professional handicap for adults. Prolonged rehabilitation offers a good functional prognosis.
