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Microsaccadic flutter
1Department of Neurology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.
Abstract:
Microsaccadic flutter is a rare symptomatic saccadic oscillation that has been reported only twice previously. Here we describe 5 patients with this disorder. The oscillation is horizontal, has a frequency of 15-30 Hz, an amplitude of 0.1-0.5 degrees, and cannot be seen with the unaided eye. It is usually not associated with any underlying neurological disorder. We hypothesize that microsaccadic flutter is due to malfunction of the brainstem omnipause neurons.
Insights
Microsaccadic flutter, a rare eye movement disorder, was observed in 5 patients. This condition involves rapid, small, involuntary horizontal eye movements, likely caused by brainstem neuron dysfunction.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neuroscience
- Neurology
Background:
- Microsaccadic flutter is a rare symptomatic saccadic oscillation.
- Previous reports documented this rare disorder only twice.
Observation:
- This study describes 5 new patients diagnosed with microsaccadic flutter.
- The oscillation is characterized by horizontal movements with a frequency of 15-30 Hz and amplitude of 0.1-0.5 degrees.
- These movements are sub-visible to the unaided eye and typically not linked to other neurological conditions.
Findings:
- The observed microsaccadic flutter in 5 patients aligns with previous limited descriptions.
- The consistent characteristics suggest a specific pathophysiological mechanism.
Implications:
- The findings expand the known cases of microsaccadic flutter, aiding in its recognition.
- The hypothesis suggests a potential link between brainstem omnipause neuron malfunction and this ocular motor disorder.
- Further research into brainstem circuitry could elucidate the etiology of microsaccadic flutter.