Choreoathetosis
Choreoathetosis is a type of neurological disorder characterized by involuntary, irregular movements that are not rhythmic, but may appear to flow from one muscle to the next. These movements include abrupt, irregular, non-repetitive, non-rhythmic, unsustained movements (chorea) and writhing, slow, sinuous, sustained movements (athetosis).
Pronunciation
Choreoathetosis is pronounced as koh-ree-oh-uh-thee-toh-sis.
Etymology
The term "Choreoathetosis" is derived from the Greek words choreia, meaning dance, and athetos, meaning without position or place.
Symptoms
Symptoms of choreoathetosis include involuntary movements, muscle weakness, and difficulty with coordination. These symptoms can vary in severity and may affect any part of the body, including the arms, legs, and trunk.
Causes
Choreoathetosis is often caused by damage to the basal ganglia, a group of structures in the brain that help control movement. This damage can be due to a variety of factors, including stroke, cerebral palsy, Huntington's disease, and certain medications.
Treatment
Treatment for choreoathetosis typically involves managing the symptoms and may include medications, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. Medications used to treat choreoathetosis include anticholinergic drugs, which can help reduce involuntary movements.
Related Terms
- Chorea: A neurological disorder characterized by jerky, involuntary movements affecting especially the shoulders, hips, and face.
- Athetosis: A condition in which there is a constant succession of slow, writhing, involuntary movements of the fingers and hands, and sometimes of the toes and feet.
- Basal Ganglia: A group of structures in the brain that help control movement.
- Anticholinergic drugs: A type of medication that blocks the action of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine in the brain.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Choreoathetosis
- Wikipedia's article - Choreoathetosis
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