Opisthotonos

Opisthotonos (pronunciation: oh-pis-tho-toe-nos) is a severe muscle spasm condition in which the back arches and the extremities flex. It is often associated with severe spasms, tetanus, and certain neurological and metabolic disorders.

Etymology

The term "Opisthotonos" comes from the Greek words "opistho," meaning behind, and "tonos," meaning tension or tone. It was first used in medical literature in the 17th century.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of opisthotonos is severe arching of the back, with the head and heels bending backward in extreme cases. Other symptoms may include muscle stiffness, muscle spasms, and difficulty breathing.

Causes

Opisthotonos is often caused by conditions that affect the nervous system, such as meningitis, encephalitis, and tetanus. It can also occur as a result of severe metabolic disorders, such as hepatic encephalopathy.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of opisthotonos is typically based on the characteristic posture of the patient, along with the presence of other symptoms. Additional tests may be performed to determine the underlying cause, such as blood tests, imaging studies, and lumbar puncture.

Treatment

Treatment of opisthotonos primarily involves managing the underlying condition causing the symptoms. This may include antibiotics for infections, antispasmodics for muscle spasms, and other treatments as necessary. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required.

Related Terms

• Spasm
• Tetanus
• Meningitis
• Encephalitis
• Hepatic encephalopathy

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Opisthotonos
• Wikipedia's article - Opisthotonos

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