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Published on: July 1, 2020
"Isolated" postinfectious myoclonus
K Bhatia1, P D Thompson, C D Marsden
1Institute of Neurology, London, UK.
Abstract:
Two cases are reported who developed myoclonus as the only manifestation of a post-infectious syndrome without evidence of encephalitis or the opsoclonus-myoclonus syndrome. Case 1 had generalised myoclonus following an influenza-like illness, while case 2 had right upper limb segmental myoclonus following uncomplicated chicken pox. Neither had any localising neurological signs or abnormality on investigation. Both recovered completely within six months of the onset. Similar cases are reviewed from the literature and it is suggested that such cases be called "isolated" post-infectious myoclonus.
Insights
Two cases of isolated post-infectious myoclonus (IPIM) following influenza and chickenpox are presented. These cases highlight IPIM as a distinct post-infectious neurological syndrome.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Post-infectious syndromes can manifest with diverse neurological symptoms.
- Distinguishing specific neurological sequelae after infections is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management.
Observation:
- Two pediatric cases presented with myoclonus as the sole neurological symptom after viral infections (influenza-like illness and chickenpox).
- Neither case exhibited signs of encephalitis or opsoclonus-myoclonus syndrome.
- Investigations revealed no localizing neurological signs or abnormalities.
Findings:
- Generalized myoclonus occurred in one case post-influenza.
- Segmental myoclonus of the upper limb was observed in the other case post-chickenpox.
- Both patients achieved complete recovery within six months.
Implications:
- The term "isolated post-infectious myoclonus" (IPIM) is proposed for these distinct cases.
- Recognizing IPIM aids in differentiating it from other post-infectious neurological disorders.
- This condition appears to have a favorable prognosis with complete resolution.
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