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Narrowing the window for 'senile chorea': a case with primary antiphospholipid syndrome

G Gelosa1, L Tremolizzo, A Galbussera

  • 1Dept. of Neurology, San Gerardo Hospital, Italy.

Journal of the Neurological Sciences
|May 27, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Senile chorea, previously idiopathic, may now be linked to primary antiphospholipid syndrome (PAPS). This case expands the known causes of chorea in older adults, suggesting PAPS in elderly patients.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Immunology
  • Geriatrics

Background:

  • 'Senile chorea' is a term for involuntary movements in older adults, often idiopathic.
  • Advances like MRI and genetic testing for Huntington's disease have reclassified some cases.
  • Primary antiphospholipid syndrome (PAPS) can cause chorea, but typically in younger individuals.

Observation:

  • A case of 'senile chorea' was observed in an elderly patient.
  • This patient presented with symptoms consistent with chorea, a neurological movement disorder.
  • The clinical presentation was typical of what has been termed 'senile chorea'.

Findings:

  • The patient's chorea was found to be associated with primary antiphospholipid syndrome (PAPS).
  • This finding challenges the previous understanding that PAPS-related chorea occurs only in younger or middle-aged subjects.
  • The diagnosis was supported by clinical presentation and potentially further diagnostic workup.

Implications:

  • This case broadens the spectrum of potential causes for chorea in the elderly population.
  • It suggests that primary antiphospholipid syndrome should be considered in the differential diagnosis of idiopathic 'senile chorea'.
  • Further research may be needed to understand the prevalence and mechanisms of PAPS-induced chorea in older adults.

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