In pediatric neurology, which disorder is associated with increased muscle tone and exaggerated reflexes?

In pediatric neurology, spasticity is characterized by increased muscle tone and exaggerated reflexes. This condition arises due to damage to the brain or spinal cord areas that control movement, often seen in disorders such as cerebral palsy. The increased muscle tone leads to stiffness and can limit movement, while the exaggerated reflexes (hyperreflexia) make the response to stimuli more intense than normal.

Spasticity is typically caused by upper motor neuron lesions, where the brain's ability to send clear, coordinated signals to the muscles is disrupted. As a result, affected individuals might experience difficulty with voluntary movements, leading to a spectrum of mobility challenges. Understanding spasticity helps in devising appropriate therapeutic strategies, such as physical therapy or medication, to manage the symptoms effectively and improve the quality of life for affected children.