Acute Infantile Spinal Muscular Atrophy C4024911
A genetic muscle-wasting disease affecting infants, causing severe weakness and often breathing problems. Often fatal in early childhood.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- G40.909
- ICD-11
- 8A00.0
- Body system
- neurologic
- Severity
- fatal
- Chronic
- true
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Warning signs - seek immediate care
Generalized hypotonia
Generalized symptoms
Progressive symptoms that can become life-threatening without treatment.
Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms worsen.
Progressive muscle weakness
Respiratory failure
Feeding difficulties
(gastrointestinal)Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Disease-Modifying Pharmacotherapy
FDA-approved SMN-enhancing therapies that target the underlying genetic cause of spinal muscular atrophy. These treatments aim to increase production of functional survival motor neuron protein.
Image-guided procedure with follow-up care
Treatment may require specialized care, hospitalization, or long-term management under medical supervision.
Respiratory Function Surveillance
Regular monitoring of respiratory function including pulmonary function tests, overnight oximetry, and assessment for sleep-disordered breathing. Early intervention for respiratory infections and provision of airway clearance techniques.
Additional treatment options
Motor Function Physical Therapy
Specialized physical therapy focused on maintaining muscle strength, preventing contractures, promoting motor development, and maximizing functional independence through age-appropriate activities and exercises.
physical_therapyNutritional Support and Feeding Management
Assessment and management of nutritional status including evaluation of swallowing function, caloric needs, and supplementation as needed. May include modified textures, feeding schedules, or enteral nutrition support.
dietaryPsychosocial Support Services
Comprehensive psychosocial support addressing emotional adjustment, school integration, social skills development, and family functioning. Includes counseling, support groups, and connection to community resources.
psychologicalWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
Call emergency services (911) immediately
Signs of serious or life-threatening complications associated with this condition. Immediate medical evaluation is required.
Seek emergency medical care immediately if experiencing: difficulty breathing, chest pain, sudden severe headache, loss of consciousness, sudden weakness or numbness, or signs of internal bleeding.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Acute Infantile Spinal Muscular Atrophy C4024911?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
Mercuri E, Finkel RS, Muntoni F, et al. Diagnosis and management of spinal muscular atrophy: Part 1: Recommendations for diagnosis, rehabilitation, orthopedic and nutritional care. Neuromuscul Disord. 2018.
Kolb SJ, Kissel JT. Spinal muscular atrophy: A timely review. Arch Neurol. 2011.
Finkel RS, Mercuri E, Darras BT, et al. Nusinersen versus sham control in infantile-onset spinal muscular atrophy. N Engl J Med. 2017.
Sverdrup FM, Højfeldt N, Vissing J. Treatment outcomes in spinal muscular atrophy: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Neurol. 2022.
Medication Comparisons
Compare medications used to treat Acute Infantile Spinal Muscular Atrophy C4024911. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.
View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy