Differential Diagnosis
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Cerebral palsy: This condition is characterized by spastic movements, delayed milestones, and hyperreflexia, which are all present in the patient. The fact that the symptoms have been present since birth and have not worsened also supports this diagnosis.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Chiari malformation: This condition can cause spasticity, delayed milestones, and hyperreflexia, although it is less likely than cerebral palsy. However, it is still a possible cause of the patient's symptoms, especially if there are other signs such as hydrocephalus or syringomyelia.
- Do Not Miss
- Guillain-Barré syndrome: Although this condition is less likely given the patient's age and the fact that the symptoms have been present since birth, it is a potentially life-threatening condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. However, the lack of worsening symptoms and the presence of delayed milestones since birth make this diagnosis less likely.
- Duchenne muscular dystrophy: This condition typically presents with progressive muscle weakness, which is not mentioned in the patient's history. However, it is a serious condition that can have significant implications, and its diagnosis should not be missed.
- Rare diagnoses
- ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis): This condition is extremely rare in children and typically presents with progressive muscle weakness, which is not mentioned in the patient's history. The presence of spastic movements and hyperreflexia could be consistent with ALS, but the age of the patient and the lack of progression of symptoms make this diagnosis highly unlikely.