Kluver Bucy syndrome in young children

For the first time, Kluver Bucy syndrome (KBS) is described in young childr en who had no environmental learning of sex. The syndrome has so far been n oted only in adults after bilateral temporal lobe affection. A few of its c omponents, especially the hypersexuality and hypermetamorphosis, are likely to manifest differently in very young children. Seven patients in the pre- pubertal age group, who developed KBS as a post-encephalitic sequelae, are described. The patients, 2.5-6 years old, suffered from acute herpes simple x encephalitis (HSE) at 10 months-5.5 years of age and developed KBS on reg aining consciousness and ambulation. Altered emotional behaviour, changes i n dietary habits, hyperorality and hypersexuality were present in all, whil e psychic blindness and hypermetamorphosis were noted in a few of the patie nts. All showed marked indifference and lack of emotional attachment toward s their close relatives. Apathy and easy distractibility were rare. Bulimia and strong urge to put non-food items into the mouth were common. Hypersex uality manifested as frequent holding of genitals, intermittent pelvic thru sting movements and rubbing of genitals to the bed on lying prone. Due to l ack of environmental learning of sex and also, due to emotional and physica l dependence on parents, the manifestations in young children showed modifi cation over those of adults. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science B.V. Ail rights rese rved.