Sydenham's chorea
Sydenham's chorea
Sydenham's chorea (pronounced: sid-en-ham's koh-ree-uh), also known as St. Vitus' dance, is a neurological disorder characterized by rapid, uncoordinated jerking movements primarily affecting the face, hands and feet.
Etymology
The term "chorea" comes from the Greek word "χορεία" (khoros), meaning "dance". It was named after Thomas Sydenham, a British physician who first described the condition in the 17th century.
Symptoms
Symptoms of Sydenham's chorea include involuntary movements, muscle weakness, emotional instability, and disturbances in coordination and gait. These symptoms may appear gradually or suddenly, and can last for several weeks to months.
Causes
Sydenham's chorea is a complication of rheumatic fever, an inflammatory disease that can develop as a result of inadequately treated streptococcus infection. The exact mechanism of how rheumatic fever leads to chorea is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve an autoimmune response that affects the basal ganglia, a group of structures in the brain that control movement.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of Sydenham's chorea is primarily based on clinical observation of the characteristic movements, along with a history of recent streptococcal infection or rheumatic fever. Additional tests such as blood tests, MRI scans, and electroencephalogram (EEG) may be used to rule out other conditions.
Treatment
Treatment for Sydenham's chorea typically involves medications to control the movements, such as anticonvulsants and sedatives. In some cases, antibiotics may be used to treat the underlying streptococcal infection. Long-term prognosis is generally good, with most patients experiencing complete recovery.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Sydenham's chorea
- Wikipedia's article - Sydenham's chorea
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