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Spinal segmental myoclonus related to pregnancy
Deniz Yerdelen1, Mehmet Karataş, Erdoğan Aslan
1Department of Neurology, Baskent University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey. vahidedenizy@gmail.com
Acta Neurologica Belgica
|June 16, 2007
Summary
This case study reports the first instance of abdominal myoclonus during pregnancy. Symptoms resolved after labor induction, suggesting a link between pregnancy and this rare condition.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Obstetrics & Gynecology
Background:
- Pregnancy can present with various physiological changes and rare complications.
- Abdominal myoclonus is an uncommon condition characterized by involuntary muscle contractions.
Observation:
- A 33-year-old pregnant woman at 39 weeks gestation presented with a one-day history of rhythmic abdominal myoclonus.
- Gynecological examination showed an unfavorable cervix with ineffective contractions.
- Neurological and biochemical tests were normal, but electrophysiological recordings confirmed 2 Hz rhythmic myoclonic activity in the rectus abdominis muscles.
Findings:
- Labor was induced on the same day the patient presented.
- Following labor induction, the frequency and severity of abdominal myoclonus decreased and resolved within two days.
Implications:
- This case suggests abdominal myoclonus can be a rare complication associated with late-term pregnancy.
- The resolution post-delivery induction highlights a potential management strategy and warrants further investigation into the pathophysiology.
- This finding contributes to the understanding of unusual neuromuscular presentations during pregnancy.
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