Torsion dystonia

Torsion Dystonia

Torsion dystonia (pronunciation: tor-shun dis-toh-nee-uh) is a rare neurological disorder that causes muscles to contract or spasm involuntarily. The term originates from the Greek words "torsi" meaning twisting, and "dystonia" meaning abnormal muscle tone.

Definition

Torsion dystonia, also known as Dystonia, is characterized by sustained or intermittent muscle contractions causing abnormal, often repetitive, movements, postures, or both. The movements are usually patterned and twisting, and may resemble a tremor.

Symptoms

Symptoms of torsion dystonia can range from very mild to severe. They may include involuntary muscle contractions, tremors, and difficulty with movement. The symptoms can be localized to one part of the body (Focal dystonia) or affect multiple areas (Multifocal dystonia).

Causes

Torsion dystonia can be caused by genetic mutations, but it can also occur without any known cause (Idiopathic dystonia). Some forms of the disorder are believed to be inherited in an autosomal dominant manner, meaning one copy of the altered gene in each cell is sufficient to cause the disorder.

Treatment

Treatment for torsion dystonia typically involves a combination of medications, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. Medications such as Anticholinergics, Benzodiazepines, and Baclofen are often used to manage symptoms. In severe cases, a surgical procedure called Deep brain stimulation may be recommended.

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals with torsion dystonia varies. Some people may experience a slow progression of symptoms over time, while others may have symptoms that plateau. The disorder does not typically affect a person's intelligence or lifespan.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Torsion dystonia
Wikipedia's article - Torsion dystonia

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Torsion dystonia