Abstract
We present clinical data from 11 children with generalised joint laxity complicated
by signs of pyramidal dysfunction confined to the lower limbs. Gait abnormalities
were observed at the time they started walking or soon afterwards. In some, there
was delay in locomotor development but all except one were mentally normal. The neurological
component of the condition was non-progressive, and sensory impairment with sphincter
involvement was observed in only one case in whom there was radiological evidence
of myelomalacia.
Whilst co-existing ligamentous laxity and pyramidal dysfunction in the lower limbs
may be coincidental, it is also possible that joint laxity is a pre-condition for
developing neurological abnormality in the legs because of hypermobility of the vertebral
column which thereby damages the spinal cord.
Key words
Non-progressive paraparesis - Congenital ligamentous laxity
