2

 

The term paroxysmal motor event refers to any sudden change in motor activity with or without associated autonomic, behavioral or respiratory rate changes (other than apnea). Most paroxysmal motor events are characterized by an increase in motor activity. Decreased motor activity is seldom sudden enough to be considered a paroxysmal motor event.
Paroxysmal motor events are benign (not indicative of significant pathology, do not require treatment, and have good prognosis) or malignant (indicative of significant pathology, require treatment or have poor prognosis) (Table 5.1).